On February 19, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw #337, focusing on French language proficiency. A total of 6,500 invitations to apply for permanent residence were issued to candidates with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 428. This draw underscores Canada's commitment to bolstering Francophone immigration outside Quebec, aiming to enhance the vitality of French-speaking communities nationwide.
Express Entry Draw #337
Date of Draw: February 19, 2025, at 16:18:12 UTC
Number of Invitations Issued: 6,500
Minimum CRS Score: 428
Program Specified: French Language Proficiency
Tie-breaking Rule: February 10, 2025, at 16:41:38 UTC
This targeted draw aligns with Canada's strategic objectives to increase Francophone immigration, as outlined in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan. The plan sets ambitious targets, aiming for French-speaking permanent resident admissions outside Quebec to reach 8.5% in 2025, 9.5% in 2026, and 10% in 2027. By prioritizing candidates with strong French language skills, IRCC seeks to address labor shortages in key sectors and support the economic development of Francophone minority communities across the country.
Recent policy initiatives, such as the new Policy on Francophone Immigration and its Implementation Plan, further demonstrate the government's dedication to promoting the vitality of these communities. These measures, coupled with category-based selection in Express Entry draws, are designed to attract French-speaking skilled workers, thereby contributing to Canada's linguistic diversity and economic prosperity.
Express Entry rounds of invitations are held throughout the year, selecting candidates based on points awarded under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The process follows these steps:
IRCC determines the type of round to hold.
The number of candidates to be invited is set.
The highest-ranking candidates from the pool who meet the criteria for that round type are identified.
Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence are issued to selected candidates.
General Rounds: Candidates eligible for any of the three Express Entry-managed programs (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades) are invited based on their CRS scores.
Program-Specific Rounds: Invitations are restricted to candidates eligible for a specific Express Entry program, such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Category-Based Rounds: The Minister establishes categories targeting specific economic goals, such as French language proficiency or healthcare occupations.
Candidates with provincial or territorial nominations continue to be invited through general and PNP-specific rounds.
Navigating the Express Entry system can be complex. To determine if your profile meets the required CRS score and to receive personalized assistance with your application, take advantage of a free assessment with AskAïa. Our experts are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you have the best chance of success in your Canadian immigration journey.