Express Entry for French-Speaking Candidates: Fast-Track Permanent Residency Through Category-Based Selection
In a major shift to Canada’s immigration system, French-speaking applicants now have a dedicated pathway to permanent residency through Express Entry even with lower CRS scores.
This change is part of Canada’s effort to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, support labour market needs, and meet its bilingualism objectives. If you are a French speaker looking for a streamlined path to Canadian permanent residence, this category-based selection may be your opportunity.
What Is Express Entry?
Express Entry is Canada’s flagship application system for permanent residency. It manages three immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST)
Candidates are assessed based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Each applicant receives a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and the highest-scoring individuals are invited to apply for permanent residence during regular draws.
How Category-Based Selection Works
In 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced new Express Entry draws based on category-specific criteria. One of the first categories prioritized was French-speaking proficiency.
This means:
- French-speaking candidates are now invited to apply even if their CRS score is significantly lower than general applicants.
- English language scores are not required, although they may improve your overall profile.
- These draws occur regularly throughout the year, depending on Canada’s immigration needs.
French is the only language category prioritized under category-based selection.
Eligibility Criteria for French-Speaking Express Entry
To qualify under the Francophone category-based selection, you must:
- Meet eligibility under one of the three main Express Entry programs (FSW, CEC, or FST)
- Have French language test results that show a minimum score of NCLC 7 in all four abilities (reading, writing, speaking, and listening)
- Submit an active Express Entry profile and indicate that French is your first official language in Canada
- Be prepared with all supporting documents and proof of settlement funds (if required by your program)
Accepted French Language Tests
To meet the language requirement, you must take one of the following approved French exams:
Your scores must be less than 2 years old at the time of submission.
Benefits of the Francophone Express Entry Stream
- Lower CRS scores accepted
- Priority in draws even when other categories are not selected
- No job offer required
- Option to settle in any Canadian province or territory except Quebec
- Accelerated processing (target: 6 months once invited and application submitted)
Why French Speakers Are a Priority in Canada
Canada has committed to supporting Francophone minority communities across the country. The goal is to increase the proportion of French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec to at least 4.4%, with funding and support already in place.
French-speaking newcomers are essential in:
- Strengthening bilingualism
- Supporting rural and regional development
- Filling key labour shortages
This policy shift ensures that language is recognized as an asset, not a barrier, for Canadian permanent residency.
How Doherty Fultz Immigration Can Help
We work with French-speaking applicants around the world to build strong Express Entry profiles and maximize their chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
Our services include:
- Language results evaluation and French test preparation support
- Guidance on education credential assessments (ECA)
- Strategic CRS score boosting advice
- Submission of your Express Entry profile and all supporting documentation
- Full representation throughout the permanent residence application process
Start Your Francophone Express Entry Application
If you’re a French speaker looking to settle in Canada, now is the time to act. Book a consultation today to find out if you qualify under this stream.
Let us help you turn your French skills into permanent residency in Canada.
