Canada has conducted a new Express Entry draw targeting candidates with strong French-language proficiency, continuing its efforts to promote Francophone immigration outside Quebec.

On March 18, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under a category-based selection focused on French-language skills. Candidates required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 393 to receive an invitation.

This draw reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to increasing the number of French-speaking immigrants and supporting bilingual communities across the country.

Express Entry Draw Results – March 18, 2026

Category: French-Language Proficiency
Number of Invitations Issed: 4,000
Minimum CRS Score: 393
Rank Required: 4,000 or above
Date & Time of Round: March 18, 2026
Tie-Breaking Rule: December 29, 2025 at 12:47:31 UTC

Under the tie-breaking rule, candidates with a CRS score of 393 were invited only if they had submitted their Express Entry profiles on or before December 29, 2025 at 12:47:31 UTC.

If more than one candidate had the lowest CRS score, the cut-off was determined based on the date and time their profiles were submitted.

Why This French-Language Draw Matters

French-language proficiency draws play a key role in Canada’s immigration strategy. By targeting French-speaking candidates, Canada aims to:

  • Strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec
  • Support bilingual labour market needs
  • Promote cultural diversity across provinces
  • Meet long-term immigration targets for French speakers

Candidates with strong French skills often benefit from lower CRS cut-offs in these targeted rounds, making this pathway highly attractive in 2026.

Express Entry Snapshot – French-Language Proficiency

Draw Date: March 18, 2026
Invitations Issued: 4,000
Minimum CRS Score: 393

This draw highlights IRCC’s continued focus on category-based selections, particularly for candidates who can contribute to Canada’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

🎉 Congratulations to the 4,000 candidates who received Invitations to Apply!

For candidates with strong French-language skills, these targeted Express Entry draws remain one of the most accessible and strategic pathways to Canadian permanent residence in 2026.