French Language Proficiency Takes Center Stage in Express Entry Draws

On July 18, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 1,800 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence through the Express Entry system. This particular draw focused on candidates with French language proficiency, reflecting a broader trend in 2024 where French skills have become a dominant criterion for selection. The cut-off Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for this draw was 400, with the tie-breaking rule set for March 8, 2024.

Significance of French Language in Express Entry Draws

IRCC has announced that 78.5% of ITAs in 2024 will be issued through category-based draws, with French language proficiency being a key factor. Specifically, 30% of all ITAs will go to candidates in this category, the highest allocation among all selection criteria. This emphasis on French language skills is driven by several factors:

• A 2021 report highlighted employers’ challenges in finding qualified bilingual workers.
• French-speaking economic immigrants generally have higher employment rates.
• Language proficiency is critical for economic success in Canada.
• The strategy supports IRCC’s goal of having 4.7% of francophone immigrants settle outside Quebec in 2023, with a target of 6% in 2024.

French Proficiency Draw Results in 2024

So far in 2024, IRCC has conducted multiple draws specifically targeting French-speaking candidates. The minimum CRS scores for these draws have ranged from 336 to 420, significantly lower than those in general draws, which have not dipped below 524. To qualify under the French proficiency category, candidates must achieve a minimum NCLC 7 in all language abilities and have at least six months of experience in an eligible occupation. Notably, for French speakers, language proficiency alone can suffice for eligibility.

Impact on the Express Entry System

The introduction of category-based draws is expected to lower the overall CRS scores needed to receive an ITA by about 10%. This change could enhance diversity in terms of source countries and occupations among immigrants. However, it may also affect economic outcomes for newcomers, as higher CRS scores are typically linked to better economic success. The future CRS thresholds will depend on the number of candidates in the Express Entry pool and their respective scores. Those with scores around 500 are encouraged to improve their scores to increase their chances of receiving an ITA.

In conclusion, French language proficiency has become the most influential factor in Express Entry draws for 2024, with lower CRS scores required compared to general draws. The long-term effects of this shift on the overall immigration program remain to be observed.

Summary of all draws in 2024

More information on Express Entry, and how are candidates selected from the Express Entry pool can be found on here

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