Express Entry Draw #341: A record 7,500 invitations for French-speaking candidates
The Express Entry #341 draw, held on March 21, 2025, marks a major turning point for French-speaking candidates wishing to immigrate to Canada. With 7,500 invitations sent out, this is the biggest draw of the year to date, targeting people with French language skills. This is excellent news for French-speaking skilled workers wishing to settle in Canada through one of the federal Express Entry programs.
Details of the March 21, 2025 draw
The draw was aimed exclusively at candidates demonstrating proficiency in French, a factor that is becoming increasingly valued in Canada's selection system. Here are the key data:
- Number of invitations: 7,500
- Minimum score: 379
- Tie-breaking rule: March 6, 2025 at 02:53:27 UTC
- Draw date and time: March 21, 2025 at 14:41:58 UTC
All applicants with a score of 379 or higher who submitted their profile before the tie-breaking date received an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
Programs concerned by this draw
The invitations for this round can be used in the three main areas of the system Express entry :
This gives qualified profiles the opportunity to continue their quest for permanent residency in Canada.
Opportunity for francophones
This draw clearly demonstrates Canada's commitment to attracting more French-speaking workers. The relatively low threshold of 379 points opens the door to many candidates who might not have been selected in general draws. So it's crucial to update your profile, get your French language skills validated, and stay ready for future rounds of invitations.
Since the start of 2025, French-speaking candidates have benefited from three targeted draws Express Entry. The Canadian government is thus demonstrating a clear desire to encourage Francophone immigration outside Quebec. Here is an overview of the key statistics:
| Print run number | Date | Invitations sent | Minimum score |
|---|---|---|---|
| #341 | March 21, 2025 | 7 500 | 379 |
| #339 | March 6, 2025 | 4 500 | 410 |
| #337 | February 19, 2025 | 6 500 | 428 |
There has been a gradual increase in the number of invitations, as well as a significant drop in the minimum score required, from 428 in February to 379 in March. This reflects a relaxation of criteria and a broadening of opportunities for French speakers.
These statistics reinforce the importance of submitting an up-to-date profile to the Express Entry pool. If you meet the French proficiency criteria, your chance may come sooner than you think!
Why Francophones must act now to immigrate to Canada
The time has never been better for French-speaking candidates wishing to settle in Canada. There are several strategic reasons for taking swift action:
1. More accessible selection thresholds
The latest French-language print run (#341) required a minimum score of just 379the lowest recorded since the beginning of the year. This decline demonstrates willingness to widen access permanent residency to candidates who meet the French language criteria, even without a very high GCS profile.
2. The political will to strengthen the French-speaking world
The Canadian government is committed to increase the proportion of French speakers outside Quebec. In concrete terms, this means more frequent and generous targeted draws, with an increasing number of invitations. This policy is part of a long-term strategy to support French-speaking communities across the country.
3. A context of scarcity and competitiveness
Although the current thresholds are attractive, there's no guarantee that they'll stay this low. The Express Entry system is highly dynamic thresholds can rise, quotas can fill up quickly, and criteria can evolve. Take advantage of momentum nowThis means maximizing your chances of success before a possible tightening.
4. Deadlines that work in your favor
Submitting a profile in the pool today allows you to set a tie-breaking date in the event of a future draw. This is a crucial advantage, because in the event of a score tie, priority is given to the oldest profiles.
In short: the way is wide open for French speakers, but this opportunity may not last. It's best to prepare your application without delay, and to be accompanied by an expert to take advantage of this exceptional context.
Need support?
Have you been invited or would you like to optimize your chances in future draws? Make an appointment with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). His expertise will help you maximize your file and make your Canadian immigration project a reality.
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