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In a significant push to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec, Canada is set to ramp up its targeted Express Entry draws, aiming to increase the number of French-speaking permanent residents to 12% of admissions by 2029. This marks a strategic rise from 8.5% in 2025, as part of the federal government’s renewed commitment to linguistic diversity and cultural preservation.
The announcement was made on June 2, 2025, by the newly appointed Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lena Metlege Diab, during a session in the House of Commons. The bold initiative represents a pivotal shift in Canada’s immigration strategy and aligns with broader efforts to revitalize minority Francophone communities (FMCs) across the country.
A Renewed Strategy for Francophone Immigration
Addressing concerns raised by MP Guillaume Deschênes-Thériault regarding the declining demographic weight of Francophones outside Quebec—from 6.1% in 1971 to 3.5% in 2021—Minister Diab outlined a multi-year roadmap to reverse this trend. Canada’s targets are set to gradually rise from 8.5% in 2025 to 9.5% in 2026, 10% in 2027, and ultimately 12% by 2029.
These targets build on the success of 2023, when the government exceeded its 4.4% goal with 4.7% of admissions being French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec.
Previously Rejected Application
Central to this effort is the increased frequency and size of Express Entry draws focused on French language proficiency. So far in 2025, French-specific draws have resulted in 18,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs), representing 54% of all Express Entry invitations.
Recent French Express Entry draws include:
- March 21, 2025: 7,500 ITAs, CRS 379
- March 6, 2025: 4,500 ITAs, CRS 410
- February 19, 2025: 6,500 ITAs, CRS 428
- March 21, 2025: 7,500 ITAs, CRS 379
These draws feature significantly lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores compared to general and provincial categories, giving French-speaking candidates a distinct advantage. In contrast, a recent June 2 PNP draw issued only 277 ITAs—a stark drop that further highlights the shift in immigration priorities.
Driving Programs Behind the Push
Canada’s strategy to boost Francophone immigration is not limited to Express Entry. A suite of programs has been introduced or expanded, targeting both skilled workers and students:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Provinces such as New Brunswick, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia lead in attracting French-speaking immigrants through the PNP, accounting for 24% of French-speaking admissions in 2023.
- Francophone Community Immigration Pilot – Launching in late 2024, this pilot aims to settle French-speaking immigrants in rural communities.
- Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot – Introduced in August 2024, this program supports international students at French-language or bilingual institutions with a pathway to permanent residency.
- Francophone Mobility Program – Expanded in 2023, it allows Canadian employers to hire French-speaking workers without a Labour Market Impact Assessment for most occupations.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Provinces such as New Brunswick, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia lead in attracting French-speaking immigrants through the PNP, accounting for 24% of French-speaking admissions in 2023.
Cultural and Economic Significance
Francophone immigration plays a critical role in maintaining Canada’s bilingual identity and addressing labor shortages. The renewed focus aims to restore the demographic balance of French-speaking communities, enhancing both economic contribution and cultural diversity.
“The demographic decline of Francophones outside Quebec is not just a linguistic concern—it’s a national one,” Minister Diab emphasized. “By setting ambitious but achievable targets, we’re investing in the future of Canada’s bilingual character.”
What’s Next?
While advocacy groups like the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada (FCFA) have called for even higher targets—12% by 2024 and 20% by 2036—IRCC maintains that its phased approach ensures realistic integration and sustained community support.
Looking ahead, more French Express Entry draws are expected in the coming weeks and months. Combined with employer support and educational pathways, French-speaking candidates now find themselves at the forefront of Canada’s immigration priorities.
Quick Facts:
- Next French Express Entry draw expected soon
- Last French draw: March 21, 2025 – 7,500 ITAs, CRS 379
- Latest Express Entry draw overall: June 2, 2025 – 277 ITAs (PNP)
- Target for 2025: 8.5% French-speaking PRs outside Quebec
- Goal for 2029: 12% French-speaking PRs
- Next French Express Entry draw expected soon
As the government continues to roll out these initiatives, French-speaking immigrants have more opportunities than ever to live, work, and thrive in Canada. This marks not just a policy shift—but a cultural investment in the country's bilingual future.
