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The most recent Canadian Express Entry draw occurred. Express Entry draw 266 recorded the lowest CRS score of 472, extending invitations to 500 individuals qualifying under the French-language proficiency category.
Express Entry Draw #266
- Draw Date: September 27, 2023
- Total Invitations Issued: 500
- Lowest CRS Score: 472
- Program Identified: French language proficiency (2023-1)
- Tie-breaker rule implemented: August 16, 2023, at 09:00:14 UTC
In the 266th Express Entry draw, 500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were distributed to individuals with a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of at least 472. This particular draw was narrowed down to those excelling in French language proficiency. Every invitee to the current draw demonstrated and exceeded the basic French linguistic standards set out in their Express Entry dossier. According to the Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens, candidates need to score at least 7 points in each language skill.
This draw is unique among all previous French-language proficiency-focused draws this year due to the expected extreme CRS scores, although it has increased the minimum number of invitations.
Compared to the previous “No Program Specified” draw number 265, where the CRS limit was 504 with 3,000 invitations sent, the current French speaker specific draw has a 32 point drop in the lowest CRS score and a 27 point drop in the number of invitations. Was recorded. , There was a lot of reduction. ,
Counting from the inaugural Specific Category draw executed on June 28, there have been nine such specialized draws. Invitations have been rolled out for STEM fields, Healthcare occupations, Transport occupations, Trade occupations, and French Speakers. Agriculture and agri-food occupations are yet to be featured in these draws.
Importance of French Language Proficiency in Canada
Over the years, significant efforts have been made by the Canadian administration to attract immigrants proficient in the French language to settle in various Canadian localities. In order to encourage the influx of French-speaking immigrants, a target has been set for 4.4 per cent of such immigrants to reside outside Quebec by the end of 2023.
The initiative to increase the French-speaking immigrant population stems from the decline in the number of native French-speaking Canadians. Data from Statistics Canada reveals a decline from 20 percent in 2016 to 19.2 percent in 2021 in the populace that predominantly communicates in French domestically. This downward trend is observable universally in Canada, Quebec included.
Eligibility Criteria for the French Speaking Category
As prescribed by IRCC, eligibility for this specific category requires:
- • Possession of a French linguistic assessment indicating at least 7 points in each linguistic competency, as outlined by the Niveaux de Competences Linguistics Canadiens.
- • Adherence to each and every condition mentioned for the particular round in question.
