Ottawa, February 6, 2026, Canada continues to prioritize skilled immigration through its Express Entry system. On February 6, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a significant category-based draw, issuing 8,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to candidates with strong French-language proficiency. This draw is one of the largest French-language Express Entry rounds in Canadian history, reflecting the federal government’s commitment to growing Francophone communities across Canada outside Quebec.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score for this draw was set at 400 points, providing opportunities for many candidates with French skills who might not qualify under other Express Entry streams.
The Express Entry draw on February 6, 2026, was category-based and focused on French-language proficiency. Here are the key details:
| Draw Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Draw Date | February 6, 2026 |
| Draw Category | French-Language Proficiency 2026 Version 2 |
| Number of ITAs Issued | 8,500 |
| CRS Score Cut-Off | 400 |
| Rank Required | 8,500 or above |
| Tie-Breaking Rule | February 3, 2026, at 11:11:44 UTC |
The tie-breaking rule ensures fairness when multiple candidates have the same CRS score. In this draw, candidates who submitted their Express Entry profiles before February 3, 2026, at 11:11:44 UTC with a CRS score of 400 or higher were selected for ITAs.
The French-language proficiency category is part of Canada’s category-based Express Entry streams. Introduced to support official language minority communities, it prioritizes candidates with strong French-language skills.
Unlike Comprehensive Ranking System-based draws that select candidates purely based on points, category-based draws target individuals with specific attributes. These draws allow IRCC to select candidates who meet Canada’s labor market needs, demographic priorities, and economic goals.
French-language draws are among the most active in Express Entry. Tens of thousands of invitations have been issued to French-speaking candidates annually since the category’s introduction. This highlights the federal strategy to strengthen Francophone communities and maintain Canada’s bilingual character.
Category-based selection allows for:
Eligibility for French-language proficiency draws under Express Entry requires candidates to meet strict criteria. These include language testing, age, work experience, and Express Entry profile requirements.
Candidates must provide proof of French proficiency through an approved language test. Only the following tests are accepted:
Test results must be less than two years old at the time IRCC receives the complete permanent residence application.
Candidates must achieve NCLC 7 or higher in all four abilities: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) benchmark ensures that applicants have the necessary French proficiency to integrate into Canadian society.
Eligible candidates must have an active Express Entry profile under one of the following federal economic programs:
Candidates cannot be members of excluded classes as described in the Express Entry instructions.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| French Language Test | TEF Canada or TCF Canada |
| Minimum NCLC Score | Level 7 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking |
| Active Express Entry Profile | FSWP, FSTP, or CEC |
The February 6 Express Entry draw aligns with Canada’s broader strategy to support Francophone immigration outside Quebec. Under the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, the federal government has set specific targets for Francophone admissions:
| Year | Target % of Francophone PR Admissions Outside Quebec | Approximate Admissions |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 9% | 30,267 |
| 2027 | 9.5% | 32,000 (estimated) |
| 2028 | 10.5% | 35,000 (estimated) |
| 2029 | 12% | 40,000 (estimated) |
In January 2026, Canada exceeded its 2025 Francophone immigration target for the fourth consecutive year, with 8.9% of permanent residents outside Quebec being French-speaking.
Candidates who receive an ITA from a French-language draw have 60 calendar days to submit a complete application for permanent residence. Timely submission is crucial.
IRCC aims to process most applications within six months of submission. Processing time can vary based on application volume and complexity. Candidates should regularly check the IRCC online portal for updates and respond promptly to requests for additional information.
Candidates with strong French skills have an increasingly accessible path to Canadian permanent residence. By preparing thoroughly and maintaining an updated Express Entry profile, candidates can maximize their chances of receiving an ITA.
Can I qualify for French-language draws if French is my second language?
Yes. Eligibility depends on achieving NCLC 7 or higher in all four French skills. English can be your first official language in your Express Entry profile.
Do I have to settle in a Francophone community?
No. Permanent residents may live anywhere in Canada outside Quebec. Francophone communities offer additional support, but settlement is not mandatory.
What is the difference between NCLC and CLB?
NCLC measures French proficiency. CLB measures English proficiency. Both use a scale of 1-12. French-language draws require NCLC 7 or higher.
Can I combine TEF Canada and TCF Canada scores?
No. Only one test administration can be used. Candidates may retake a test and submit the best complete set of results.
How long will I wait in the Express Entry pool?
Candidates with strong French profiles generally receive ITAs within 1-3 months. Draw frequency and CRS scores influence selection.
The February 6, 2026, Express Entry draw demonstrates Canada’s commitment to attracting French-speaking skilled workers. With 8,500 ITAs issued and a CRS cut-off of 400 points, thousands of candidates now have the opportunity to pursue permanent residence.
Canada’s Francophone immigration strategy, including the French-language proficiency category, provincial nominee programs, and welcoming community initiatives, makes this one of the best times for French-speaking professionals to apply.
To improve your chances:
By following these steps, French-speaking candidates can secure a smooth pathway to permanent residence and contribute to Canada’s growing Francophone communities.
