Latest Express Entry Draw On November 28 Sent 6,000 PR Invitations

Last Updated On 28 November 2025, 1:41 PM EST (Toronto Time)

On November 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada invited 6,000 candidates in a new Express Entry draw for candidates with strong French language skills, making this another significant step toward strengthening francophone immigration outside Quebec.

This draw continues the trend of large French-focused rounds in the second half of 2025, while also bringing the Comprehensive Ranking System cutoff down to the second-lowest levels in 2025.

The November 28 draw also comes during a period of high activity in the Express Entry system with a significantly higher number of ITAs as compared to other categories and programs.

Summary of the November 28 Express Entry Draw

The latest French language proficiency draw issued the following invitations:

Category: French language proficiency (Version 1)
Date and time: November 28, 2025
CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 408
Number of invitations issued: 6,000
Rank needed: 6,000 or above
Tie-breaking rule: May 26 2025 at 12:28:38 UTC

This large round represents the government’s continued shift in favour of francophone candidates, aligning with Canada’s new multi-year immigration strategy focused on regional population growth and labour market needs.

All The French Language Proficiency Draws in 2025

#	Date	Invitations	CRS cutoff score
382	November 28, 2025	6,000	408
376	October 29, 2025	6,000	416
371	October 6, 2025	4,500	432
365	September 4, 2025	4,500	446
360	August 8, 2025	2,500	481
341	March 21, 2025	7,500	379
339	March 6, 2025	4,500	410
337	February 19, 2025	6,500	428

Why French Candidates Are Being Prioritized

French-speaking newcomers play an increasingly important role in Canada’s long-term demographic and economic strategy.

Several national objectives help explain why this category continues to see massive invitation numbers:

Strengthening francophone minority communities

Many communities outside Quebec have been losing French-speaking populations for decades.

Category-based draws help reverse this trend by directing more francophone immigrants to regions that need population growth.

Meeting Canada’s French-language immigration targets

Canada has repeatedly emphasized a commitment to increasing francophone immigration levels each year.

These large draws help ensure the country stays on track with these federal targets.

Addressing labour shortages

Many provinces face shortages in sectors where bilingual communication is essential, including public service, education, healthcare, community services, and government-funded programs.

Boosting economic integration

French-speaking newcomers often integrate quickly into the labour market due to strong language proficiency and prior international work experience.

With the new 2026–2028 immigration plan focusing heavily on skills-based and regional development pathways, francophone candidates will continue to see favourable opportunities.

The November 28, 2025 Express Entry draw marks a major moment in Canada’s immigration landscape.

With 6,000 invitations and a CRS cutoff of 408, this round highlights the government’s strong commitment to attracting French-speaking newcomers and bolstering regional growth outside Quebec.

As 2025 winds down, French-speaking candidates now have one of the most reliable and predictable pathways to obtaining Canadian permanent residency.

With continued demand, ongoing category-based rounds, and a clear policy focus on bilingual immigration, the future looks promising for those pursuing the French language proficiency stream.

If the momentum continues, upcoming draws may offer even more opportunities for applicants across Canada and around the world who aim to build a long-term future through Canada’s Express Entry system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the minimum CRS score needed to receive an Express Entry invitation?

There is no single fixed CRS score that guarantees an invitation because the cutoff changes with every draw. IRCC issues invitations based on the number of candidates in the pool, category-based priorities, and annual PR targets. CEC draws have cutoffs in the 530+ range, while category-based draws such as French language proficiency, healthcare, or trades can drop into the 400-470 range. The best approach is to compare your CRS score to the most recent draws and update your profile regularly to stay competitive.

How do category-based Express Entry draws work?

Category-based draws target candidates who meet specific criteria that Canada has prioritized for economic and demographic reasons. These categories include French language proficiency, healthcare, STEM, trades, education, and agriculture. If you meet the category requirements and your CRS score is above the cutoff for that round, you can receive an invitation even if your CRS is lower than general draws. Category-based rounds operate alongside Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws, so multiple types of invitations can occur in the same month.

How long does Express Entry processing take in 2025?

Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s program, country of residence, security checks, and file complexity. Most complete applications take around six months from the date IRCC confirms they have received all documents, but some can be approved faster and others may take longer. Delays typically happen due to background verifications, medical assessments, or additional document requests. Submitting a complete and accurate application helps avoid extra processing time.

How can I increase my CRS score for Express Entry?

There are several effective ways to raise your CRS score. Many candidates gain points by improving their language test results, earning more Canadian work experience, completing additional education, or obtaining a provincial nomination, which adds 600 points. You can also gain points through your spouse’s qualifications or retaking language tests for higher band scores.

Can I apply for Express Entry if I am in Canada on a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit?

Yes, you can apply for Express Entry from inside or outside Canada as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the programs. Being on a visitor visa does not prevent you from submitting an Express Entry profile, but it does not give you extra points. Candidates on study or work permits may have advantages because they can gain Canadian work experience and education points. Your physical location does not affect your eligibility, but you must maintain legal status while in Canada.

Kamal Deep Singh, RCIC

Kamal Deep Singh, RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) licensed by CICC (formerly known as ICCRC) with member number R708618. He brings extensive knowledge of immigration law and new changes to rapidly evolving IRCC.