Canada’s immigration system just hit a milestone. On February 6, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted the largest category-based draw in Express Entry history, inviting 8,500 skilled candidates with French language proficiency to apply for permanent residence. This massive draw signals Canada’s ongoing push to welcome bilingual talent, especially those ready to contribute to Francophone communities. If you’re eyeing Canada PR through Express Entry system , this update could be your green light. Keep reading to understand the details, eligibility, and how to position your profile for success.
What Happened in This Historic Draw?
IRCC targeted candidates with strong French skills in this category-based Express Entry draw. Key requirements included:
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A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 400.
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An active Express Entry profile created before 11:11 a.m. UTC on February 3, 2026.
This draw underscores Canada’s priority on French-language proficiency amid efforts to balance immigration across English and French-speaking regions. With a relatively low CRS cutoff of 400, it’s a prime opportunity for qualified applicants especially compared to general draws.
Express Entry Draws in 2026: A Quick Summary
This was the sixth Express Entry draw of 2026, bringing the total ITAs issued so far to 24,178. IRCC has focused heavily on in-Canada candidates, emphasizing Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and now French proficiency.
| Draw Date | Draw Type | CRS Cut-off | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 6 | French-Language Proficiency | 400 | 8,500 |
| February 3 | Provincial Nominee Program | 749 | 423 |
| January 21 | Canadian Experience Class | 509 | 6,000 |
| January 20 | Provincial Nominee Program | 746 | 681 |
| January 7 | Canadian Experience Class | 511 | 8,000 |
| January 5 | Provincial Nominee Program | 711 | 574 |
Draw type totals so far in 2026:
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Canadian Experience Class: 14,000 ITAs (2 draws)
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French-Language Proficiency: 8,500 ITAs (1 draw)
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Provincial Nominee Program: 1,255 ITAs (3 draws)
These trends show IRCC favoring candidates already in Canada with work experience or provincial backing, making in-Canada Express Entry strategies more competitive than ever.
Why This Matters for Your Canada Immigration Journey ?
Canada aims to welcome 500,000 new immigrants annually by 2026, with Express Entry as a cornerstone. Category-based draws like this one prioritize skills in demand, such as French proficiency, to support economic growth and cultural diversity.
If you have NCLC 7+ in French (speaking, listening, reading, writing), this draw highlights your edge even with a CRS around 400. For others, it signals upcoming opportunities: boost your language scores, secure a PNP nomination, or gain Canadian work experience to climb the ranks.
How to Boost Your CRS Score for Future Draws?
Don’t have 8,500 ITAs? No problem—improve your odds now:
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Maximize language points: Aim for CLB 9+ in English/French for up to 136 points.
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Gain Canadian experience: CEC draws love it (e.g., recent cutoffs at 509-511).
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Secure a PNP: Adds 600 CRS points instantly.
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Get a job offer: Valid ones boost scores by 50-200 points.
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Improve education: ECA-assessed credentials add value.
Check your CRS score for free with Future Fly Services and see if you’re draw-ready.
Express Entry moves fast profiles expire after 12 months, and cutoffs fluctuate. With 2026 draws ramping up in-country talent, now’s the time to update your profile or explore PNPs. Ready for personalized guidance on Canada Express Entry 2026? Contact Future Fly Services today for a free eligibility assessment. Our experts specialize in French-category strategies, CRS optimization, and full PR applications.