Canada Welcomes 1,000 French-Speaking Skilled Workers

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw on December 7th, inviting 1,000 French-speaking skilled workers to apply for permanent residency. This targeted draw marks the sixth Express Entry draw this year focused on attracting individuals with strong French language skills, underscoring Canada’s commitment to promoting linguistic diversity and cultural enrichment.

Key Points:

• Number of Invitations:1,000.
• Targeted Stream:French-speaking skilled workers.
• Minimum CRS Score:470 points – 16 points lower than the previous French-speaking draw.
• Tie-breaking rule: October 03, 2023 at 04:45:27 UTC
• Application Window: 60 days.
• Processing Time: Within 6 months.

Lower CRS Score Reflects Increased Focus:

The significantly lower CRS score compared to the previous French-speaking draw (486 points) demonstrates IRCC’s efforts to attract a wider pool of talented individuals who can contribute to Canada’s economic and social fabric. This move aligns with the government’s target of 4.4% of francophone immigrants settling outside Quebec by the end of 2023.

French Language Skills in High Demand:

Fluency in French is a valuable asset in Canada, particularly in certain industries and regions. This draw allows IRCC to select skilled individuals who can effectively integrate into French-speaking communities and contribute to the preservation and vitality of the language across the country.

Continued Strong Immigration Levels:

The December 7th draw marks the 37th round of invitations under Express Entry in 2023, bringing the total number of invitations issued this year to 100,971. This signifies Canada’s unwavering commitment to welcoming skilled newcomers and achieving its ambitious record immigration target of 465,000 for 2023.

Open Invitation to Skilled French Speakers:

Individuals with strong French language skills and relevant skills and experience are encouraged to explore their eligibility for Express Entry and consider applying for permanent residency in Canada. The December 7th draw demonstrates IRCC’s ongoing focus on attracting francophone talent, offering a promising pathway to becoming part of a vibrant and diverse nation.