7,000 French Speakers Invited to Apply for Canadian Permanent Residence

Canada's Express Entry system is ramping up invitation numbers in early 2024 after a record-breaking 2023. 

The latest draw issued 7,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for Canadian permanent residence to French-speaking candidates with scores as low as 365 CRS points. This follows an all-program draw on January 31 inviting 730 candidates with 541+ CRS scores. 

Prior to that, there were draws on January 23 (1,040 ITAs, 543+ CRS) and January 10 (1,510 ITAs, 546+ CRS). Both were general draws open to all programs.

IRCC is aggressively reducing CRS cut-off thresholds as it works to meet 2024's rising admissions target of over 400,000 newcomers. Last year saw 42 draws and over 110,000 ITAs issued.

The early emphasis on French language ability reflects Canada's ongoing focus on francophonie and bilingualism goals. But with labour shortages across many occupations, targeted draws for healthcare, tech, and skilled trades are also expected this year. 

With hiring demand high and CRS scores dropping, 2024 presents major opportunities in Canada's Express Entry system. The high tempo of draws so far shows Canada is looking to bring in record numbers of skilled workers this year. 

With Canada looking to welcome over 400,000 immigrants this year, there will be huge demand for foreign workers across many occupations. This presents a major opportunity for Canadian employers looking to fill talent gaps by recruiting overseas.

Last year saw extensive Express Entry draws targeting healthcare, STEM, and skilled trades occupations to meet pressing labour market needs. With Canada's economy still running hot, targeted draws will continue being a major source of economic immigration in 2024.

The latest French-speaking draw required a minimum CRS of 365 points, 176 points below the previous all-program draw. This shows IRCC is still aggressively lowering cut-off scores to meet rising admissions targets.

In total, Canada conducted:

• 19 all-program Express Entry draws in 2023
• 5 PNP-specific draws
• 6 draws for French speakers 

The time is right for foreign nationals looking to relocate to Canada for high-paying jobs in fields like healthcare, engineering, tech and more. With strong hiring demand, this is the right time to make your Canada immigration move.

Take advantage of Canada's demand for foreign workers. Connect with our expert Canadian immigration lawyers to explore your options.