Canada is well-known for its inclusive immigration policies. Ottawa invites individuals worldwide to enrich its diverse society. Learning French can significantly enhance your chances of obtaining permanent residency in Canada. The Express Entry system is a pivotal route to permanent residence, with proficiency in French being a key factor. In this blog, we explore the importance of French in Express Entry and the strategic path for French-speaking immigrants in Canada. Additionally, we introduce a promising new development – the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot
Express Entry and the Power of French
The Express Entry system is a points-based immigration selection system that evaluates candidates based on age, education, work experience and language skills. Attaining Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 in French provides applicants additional points, substantially elevating their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
French Language Proficiency Tests:
To demonstrate their French proficiency, applicants can take permitted language exams, including the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF Canada) and the Test de connaissance du français (TCF Canada), which evaluate reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
The validity of language test results
The validity of language test results for permanent residence applications is limited to two years from the test date. For those who have received an invitation to apply for permanent residence, it is crucial to confirm that their language test results will remain valid at the time of application.
CRS Points Breakdown
Candidates with CLB level 7 in French can receive up to 22-24 extra points in the Express Entry CRS in addition to their points for English. CLB 7 represents an advanced intermediate level of French proficiency. It signifies the ability to understand and engage in complex conversations, making you a valuable asset in a bilingual Canadian environment. Proficiency in English and French can yield up to 50 additional points for bilingualism! This score boost can be a game-changer in the highly competitive Express Entry system.
French-Language Proficiency Category in Express Entry
Among the six new selection categories, strong French-speaking abilities stand out as the sole criterion not reliant on work experience as the primary selection factor.
Individuals aspiring to immigrate to Canada can benefit from French-language proficiency, as it contributes additional points to their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The CRS is instrumental in ranking candidates within the Express Entry pool.
Applicants aiming for immigration can explore various economic programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and a segment of the Provincial Nominee Program.
Express Entry Invitations for French Speakers
Category-based Express Entry draws introduced a new dimension, highlighting French language proficiency as a crucial factor. With the implementation of these draws, French language proficiency has emerged as a transformative factor, reshaping the landscape for permanent residency (PR) applicants in Canada.
Since the announcement of category-based selections on May 31, 2023, up until March 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a total of eight distinct invitation rounds specifically targeting francophones. In 2023, six rounds resulted in a remarkable 8,700 invitations being extended. Furthermore, a significant selection round occurred on February 1, 2024, wherein 7,000 individuals with a proficient command of the French language received invitations.
Another draw occurred on February 29, inviting 2,500 French-speaking candidates who achieved a CRS score of 336 points – the lowest ever CRS score for category-based Express Entry draws. Notably, the CRS scores of these 18,200 candidates ranged between 336 and 486 points.
Future Opportunities: Francophone Community Immigration Pilot
In a groundbreaking announcement, Minister Marc Miller revealed the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot. Set to launch in fall 2024, the pilot aims to increase the number of French-speaking newcomers in minority communities, contributing to economic and demographic growth. Communities will be selected this spring, aligning with IRCC’s commitment to supporting regional immigration programs.
Which PNPs Have Immigration Streams for French-Speaking Candidates Outside of Quebec?
Having proficiency in French can make the immigration process smoother. Several provinces and territories offer Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) with specific streams for French-speaking candidates. For example, Ontario has a separate stream for the Francophones. In general, almost every province allows you to apply for a nomination with the knowledge of French.
It’s essential for candidates to carefully review the specific requirements and criteria of each PNP stream to determine their eligibility and maximize their chances of success. French-speaking candidates can leverage these streams to enhance their prospects of obtaining provincial nomination, which significantly aids in the overall Express Entry process.
French Proficiency and Strategic Pathways: A Game-Changer in Canadian Immigration
To sum up, mastery of the French language emerges as a crucial determinant in the Canadian immigration landscape. Attaining CLB level 7 in French elevates Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores and significantly boosts the likelihood of receiving an invitation through the Express Entry system. With strategic pathways, bilingualism can open doors to more opportunities, especially in provinces and territories that value both official languages, making French proficiency a game-changer for those charting their course toward permanent residency in Canada. Furthermore, as we anticipate the promising Francophone Community Immigration Pilot, it becomes increasingly apparent that proficiency in French remains a vital asset for those envisioning Canada as their permanent home. So, if Canada is your destination, pourquoi ne pas apprendre le français? (Why not learn French?)