Canada Makes Express Entry History with Massive French-Language Draw

Shiwangi Srivastava
[Published 07 Feb, 2026 | 06:42 AM]
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Canada has made Express Entry history by holding the first French-language draw of 2026 and issuing the largest number of invitations ever to French-speaking candidates. This marks the 6th Express Entry draw of the year and the second draw of the month.

By prioritizing candidates with strong French language proficiency, the government aims to address labour shortages, support regional economic growth, and enhance linguistic diversity.

For French-speaking applicants, this historic draw sets a strong tone for the year ahead and highlights the growing importance of language-based category selection within the Express Entry system.

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Express Entry Latest Draw Result

Canada held the latest Express Entry draw on February 6, 2026, issuing 8,500 ITAs with a minimum CRS score of 400.

• Draw number: #394
• Draw date: February 6, 2026
• Type of round: French language proficiency
• Number of invitations issued: 8,500
• CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 400
• Tie-breaking rule: February 03, 2026, at 11:11:44 UTC

If more than one candidate has the lowest score, the cut-off is determined by the date and time of their Express Entry profile submission.

Express Entry Summary of 2026

Below is an overview of Express Entry draws held in 2026 to date, highlighting key details: draw dates, categories, invitations issued, and minimum CRS scores.

As of 2026, IRCC has issued 24,178 Express Entry invitations, underscoring Canada’s emphasis on targeted selection across key immigration programs.

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How do French Candidates Apply Through Express Entry Draw?

French-speaking candidates can apply for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry by qualifying under the French-Language Proficiency category draw. This pathway is designed to attract Francophone talent and support Canada’s goal of strengthening bilingual communities outside Quebec.

To apply through Express Entry, French candidates must first meet the eligibility criteria for one of the federal programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, or the Federal Skilled Trades Program. 

They must then create an Express Entry profile and submit valid French language test results from approved testing agencies. Candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), where strong French proficiency can significantly improve scores.

The application process typically involves the following steps:

• Take an approved French language test and obtain qualifying scores
• Create an Express Entry profile and enter the candidate pool
• Be considered for the French-Language Proficiency category draws
• Receive an Invitation to Apply through Express Entry

Submit a complete permanent residence application within the required timeline

Overall, the French-Language Proficiency draw provides a targeted, competitive pathway for French-speaking candidates seeking to apply for Canada PR through Express Entry.

Source: canada.ca