IRCC Issues 6,500 ITAs in Latest French-Proficiency Express Entry Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued another round of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Express Entry system, continuing its efforts to meet immigration targets for 2025-2026.

Written & reviewed by Keshav Sharma, RCIC #R530203, Founder, ELAAR Immigration Consulting Inc.Last reviewed: February 20255 min read

IRCC issued 6,500 ITAs to candidates in a French-proficiency category-based draw in the latest draw. To be eligible, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 428 and had to have created their Express Entry profile before February 10, 2025.

This draw marks the fourth round of invitations in February, following two Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws and one Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw earlier in the month. So far in February, IRCC has issued 11,601 ITAs, reflecting the department’s commitment to meeting its immigration goals.

Key Details of the Latest Targeted Express Entry Draw

• Express Entry Round: #337
• Draw Type: French language proficiency (Version 1)
• Draw Date: February 19, 2025
• CRS Cut-off Score: 428
• No. of invitations: 6,500
• Tie-breaking rule: February 10, 2025

Targeted Express Entry for French-Speaking Immigrants

The French-language proficiency category within the Express Entry system is designed to attract French-speaking immigrants to Canada. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate advanced French language skills by scoring at least CLB 7 on an official French language test in all four language abilities (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).

Unlike other categories, this stream does not require candidates to have six months of work experience in a specific job category, making it an attractive option for fluent French speakers.

Here are the French language proficiency draws (as of February 19, 2025) mentioned in your list:

How to Boost Your CRS Score for Express Entry Success

Express Entry candidates have multiple strategies to enhance their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores, increasing their likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency. Here are some effective ways to improve your CRS score:

Obtain a Provincial Nomination: Securing a provincial nomination through an Express Entry-aligned Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream can add 600 CRS points to your profile, virtually guaranteeing an ITA in the next draw. This process, known as “enhanced nomination,” allows candidates to have their permanent residency application processed through the federal immigration system.

Improve Language Scores: Language proficiency is a critical factor in the CRS, contributing up to 310 points when combined with other factors like education. If you have a spouse or partner, their language skills can add up to 320 additional points, making it a valuable area to focus on.

Switch Principal Applicants: If your accompanying spouse or partner has a higher CRS score, consider making them the principal applicant. Alternatively, you can submit separate profiles to maximize your chances of receiving an ITA.

Gain Additional Education Credentials: Education can contribute up to 200 points for international credentials and up to 250 points for Canadian post-secondary qualifications. If you completed your education outside Canada, obtaining an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) can help you claim points for your existing degrees or diplomas.

Accumulate Work Experience: Canadian and foreign work experience can significantly boost your CRS score. To maximize your points, focus on gaining more eligible, skilled work experience and ensure your current experience is well-documented.

Need Help with Category-Based Targeted Express Entry?

Navigating the Express Entry system and improving your CRS score can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Keshav Sharma, a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), offers expert guidance on Canadian immigration.

As the Founder and CEO of Elaar Immigration Consulting Inc., he brings extensive knowledge of programs like Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Mr. Sharma provides personalized assistance to skilled workers, students, and families, helping them navigate the immigration process and achieve their Canadian dreams.

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