On This Page, You Will Find:
- 2025 Express Entry draws for French-speaking candidates
- Canada’s immigration targets for Francophones outside Quebec
- Quebec’s restrictions vs. federal opportunities for French speakers
- New federal funding to support Francophone communities
- How French can give you an advantage in Canada immigration
IRCC Is Prioritizing French Speakers in 2025
In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is placing strong emphasis on French-speaking immigration to support Canada’s demographic and economic goals, especially outside Quebec.
Canada’s Express Entry system, immigration targets, and federal funding all reflect a shift toward supporting Francophone minority communities and ensuring French speakers have more accessible immigration pathways.
Express Entry Draws Show Clear Preference for French Speakers
So far in 2025, IRCC has held three major Express Entry draws targeting French language proficiency, with thousands of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued at lower CRS scores compared to general draws.
Express Entry French Language Draws in 2025:
| Date | Invitations | CRS Cut-Off |
| March 21, 2025 | 7,500 | 379 |
| March 6, 2025 | 4,500 | 410 |
| February 19, 2025 | 6,500 | 428 |
These scores are much lower than general or PNP draws, where cut-offs exceed 500 or even 700. This gives French-speaking candidates a clear advantage in qualifying for permanent residence.
Canada’s 2025–2027 Targets for Francophone Immigration
As part of its 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, the Canadian government is aiming to steadily increase the proportion of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec:
| Year | Target | % of Total |
| 2025 | 29,325 | 8.50% |
| 2026 | 31,350 | 9.50% |
| 2027 | 31,500 | 10% |
These targets show a strong commitment to building Francophone communities across Canada, especially in provinces where French is a minority language.
In 2024, Canada already exceeded its target, reaching 7.21% French-speaking admissions outside Quebec – up from just 1.21% in previous years.
Quebec’s Immigration Caps vs. Federal Opportunities
While Quebec is Canada’s only majority French-speaking province, it has recently limited its immigration levels, focusing on lower intake numbers and language testing for all applicants. This has created fewer spots for immigrants – even those who speak French.
In contrast, the federal government is encouraging Francophone immigration outside Quebec with:
- Lower CRS scores for French-speaking Express Entry candidates
- Higher immigration targets
- Special Francophone PNP streams in several provinces
It’s worth noting: once you obtain permanent residence in Canada, you can live anywhere – including Quebec – even if you applied through a federal program.
$9.3 Million in New Funding for Francophone Communities
To mark International Francophonie Day on March 20, 2025, Minister Rachel Bendayan announced $9.3 million in funding for 12 new projects to support:
- Recruitment and retention of French-speaking immigrants
- Support services for Francophone newcomers
- Reducing barriers to Francophone immigration
- Economic and demographic growth in minority-language communities
These projects are managed by the Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration and financed under the Francophone Immigration Support Program.
Why French Can Give You an Edge in Canada Immigration
Being able to speak French can help you:
- Qualify for category-based Express Entry draws
- Meet language requirements for Francophone-focused PNPs
- Integrate into Francophone communities outside Quebec
- Access settlement and career support services
French language skills now offer a real advantage for skilled immigrants – not just in Quebec, but across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get permanent residence in Canada if I speak French but not English?
Yes, French-speaking candidates can qualify through category-based Express Entry draws or PNPs. While English helps, strong French skills alone can make you eligible.
Do I need to move outside Quebec if I apply through the federal Express Entry?
No. Once you have permanent residence, you are free to live anywhere in Canada – including Quebec – even if you applied through a federal program.
Why is Quebec limiting immigration while Canada increases Francophone targets?
Quebec sets its own immigration policies and is reducing intake. In contrast, the federal government is expanding Francophone immigration outside Quebec to build diversity.
What are the CRS score advantages for French speakers?
In 2025, French-speaking draws had cut-offs as low as 379 – significantly lower than other programs. Speaking French increases your chances of getting an ITA.
What is the Francophone Immigration Support Program?
It’s a federal initiative funding projects that help Francophone newcomers settle, integrate, and thrive in minority-language communities across Canada.
