Canada Boosts Immigration for French-Speaking Skilled Workers Through Express Entry

The Government of Canada is encouraging French-speaking skilled workers to immigrate and contribute to the country’s economy through its Express Entry system, with a focus on settling in Francophone communities outside Quebec. The initiative, detailed on the Canada.ca website, offers a streamlined path to permanent residency for eligible candidates, emphasizing the value of French language skills.

**Express Entry Overview**

Express Entry is an online system that manages applications for permanent residency by creating a pool of candidates based on their skills, experience, and language proficiency. Candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), with top scorers receiving invitations to apply for permanent residency. The system prioritizes those who can meet Canada’s economic needs, including French-speaking workers.

**Benefits for French Speakers**

French-speaking candidates can earn up to 50 additional CRS points for strong French language skills, even if French is their second language. Those scoring a Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) level 7 or higher in all four French language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) can gain:

- 25 points if their English skills are at Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) level 4 or lower (or if no English test is taken).

- 50 points if they score CLB 5 or higher in all four English skills.

In 2025, French language proficiency is a key category for category-based selection rounds, targeting candidates who can strengthen Canada’s Francophone communities outside Quebec. **Eligibility and Application Process** To join the Express Entry pool, candidates must be eligible for one of the included immigration programs and submit a profile with details of their skills, experience, and language abilities. A personal reference code, obtained by answering eligibility questions, is required to create a profile. Candidates with the highest CRS scores are invited to apply for permanent residency within 60 days. Required documents, such as language test results, must be ready for submission if invited. **Support for Francophone Newcomers** The Welcoming Francophone Communities initiative highlights 14 communities outside Quebec that offer robust support for French-speaking newcomers, including access to French-language services, cultural activities, and job opportunities. The Destination Canada Mobility Forum also connects French-speaking and bilingual candidates with employers seeking their skills. **Options for Non-Invited Candidates** Candidates with lower CRS scores can improve their chances by gaining Canadian work experience through the Francophone Mobility work permit, which simplifies hiring for Canadian employers. Those ineligible for Express Entry can explore other immigration pathways outlined on Canada.ca. **A Growing Francophone Presence** Canada’s commitment to fostering Francophone communities outside Quebec is evident in its tailored immigration programs and community support initiatives. Newcomers can access high-quality education, diverse job opportunities, and settlement services in both French and English, ensuring a smooth transition to life in Canada.

For more details, visit Canada.ca or contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The page was last updated on July 9, 2025.