French: The New Key to Unlocking Canada’s Immigration Door

French: The New Key to Unlocking Canada’s Immigration Door

When looking closely at Canada’s current immigration policies, one trend is clear: English alone is no longer enough. Since this year, applicants who can speak French have begun to access new and meaningful opportunities. This is not merely a symbolic move for linguistic diversity—it is a structural change that directly affects immigration scores and selection priorities.

In March this year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a category-based Express Entry draw specifically for candidates with French-language proficiency. A total of 7,500 invitations were issued, with a cut-off score of 379. In comparison, the general draw at that time required over 500 points. This clearly shows that French ability has become a powerful differentiator. Candidates can now earn up to 50 additional CRS points for French proficiency, which can significantly boost their overall ranking—especially when combined with strong English scores.

This policy shift is far from temporary. In its 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, the Canadian government announced its goal to increase the proportion of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec from 8.5% to 10%. While the total number of permanent residents is set to decrease, the share of French-speaking immigrants is intentionally being raised. This is not just about language; it’s a nationwide strategy to restore demographic balance and preserve cultural diversity within Canada’s Francophone communities.

At the same time, immigration pathways for French speakers are expanding. For instance, the Francophone Mobility Program allows French-speaking workers to obtain work permits more easily outside Quebec. Some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) also designate French proficiency as a preferred or priority condition. Additionally, new initiatives like the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot are gaining attention, particularly in rural regions seeking to strengthen their Francophone presence.

In this evolving landscape, French is no longer a “secondary” language to English—it has become a gateway to immigration opportunities. For those whose English scores fall short or who face intense competition in the general streams, French proficiency can open an entirely new, policy-supported path. The government’s growing investment in Francophone settlement services and community support programs also ensures a stronger foundation for newcomers.

It is undeniable that Canada’s immigration thresholds are tightening. The English-language categories have reached a saturation point, demanding increasingly higher scores. Yet, draws for French-speaking candidates are becoming more frequent and accessible. Given this direction, now is the time to gain a competitive edge for the coming years through French study.

For many new learners, the biggest challenge is access to quality French education. Until recently, it was difficult to find programs offering authentic, Canadian-style French instruction. That gap will finally be filled this November with the launch of ILAC’s new online French course. Taught live by certified instructors in Canada, the program offers an integrated approach to conversational practice and exam preparation.

Schools ON AIR is proud to serve as the official recruitment partner for this program. Open to both high school students and adult learners, the ILAC online French course provides personalized placement, free level testing, and demo classes. It’s ideal for beginners and advanced learners alike who wish to prepare for official proficiency exams in a flexible and effective way.

In Canada’s current immigration environment, linguistic diversity has become a defining keyword. The door that once seemed closed with English alone is now reopening through French. If you are exploring pathways to Canadian immigration or new opportunities for growth, this may be the perfect moment to expand your possibilities through French. In an increasingly competitive landscape, French could be the key that opens another door for you.

<For inquiries about the ILAC Online French Language Course,

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