In a significant move to attract skilled immigrants, the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a category-based Express Entry draw #324 on November 15, 2024, inviting 800 French-speaking candidates to apply for Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) visas. This latest draw saw a notable decrease in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement, now set at 478, making it an opportune moment for French-speaking professionals looking to settle in Canada.
Latest Express Entry Draw #324
The recent Express Entry draw specifically targeted candidates proficient in French. Below are the key details from the draw:
| Draw Date | Number of Invitations Issued | Minimum CRS Score |
| November 15, 2024 | 800 | 478 |
Canada’s thriving economy offers numerous opportunities for skilled workers. The latest Express Entry draw is part of a larger trend where IRCC has invited 92,768 skilled workers in 2023.
Category-Based Selection Rounds
The latest draw is part of IRCC’s category-based selection rounds, which were introduced to align immigration with labor market needs. These rounds allow for targeted invitations based on specific criteria, such as language proficiency or work experience in high-demand occupations.
In 2024, IRCC has identified six categories for category-based Express Entry invitation rounds:
1. French Language Proficiency
2. Healthcare Professionals
3. Skilled Trades
4. Technology Workers
5. Agricultural Workers
6. Early Childhood Educators
French-speaking Candidates in the 2025 Immigration Levels Plan
In the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, the Canadian government has set clear targets to enhance its immigration framework, particularly focusing on strengthening Francophone communities nationwide. As part of this initiative, the plan outlines specific allocations for French-speaking candidates. According to the latest announcements, the immigration targets for French-speaking candidates are as follows:
2025: 8.5% of overall permanent resident admissions
2026: 9.5% of overall permanent resident admissions
2027: 10% of overall permanent resident admissions
These percentages indicate a gradual increase in the number of French-speaking immigrants that Canada aims to welcome each year, emphasizing the government’s focus on enhancing the presence and integration of Francophones outside Quebec.
Next Steps for Interested Candidates
For those who did not receive an invitation this time, it’s essential to stay informed about future draws and continuously improve your CRS score by:
Enhancing language skills (both English and French).
Gaining additional work experience or education.
Seeking provincial nominations that can boost your CRS score.
The recent Express Entry draw #324 by IRCC inviting 800 French-speaking candidates highlights Canada’s proactive approach to immigration by addressing specific labor market needs. With a CRS score requirement of only 478, this presents a valuable opportunity for skilled professionals looking to establish their lives in Canada.
As Canada continues to embrace diversity and support its economic growth through immigration, staying updated on future draws and understanding the requirements can significantly enhance your chances of obtaining permanent residency. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, now is an excellent time to explore your options in one of the world’s most welcoming countries. For more information on how you can apply for Canadian immigration, connect with our consultants at ImmigCanada.
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