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| In its quest to deepen linguistic diversity in Canada, Francophone candidates remain a key focus for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, as demonstrated in the latest Express Entry draw. On 10th October 2024, IRCC conducted round #318, where it issued invitations to apply for permanent residency to 1,000 Francophone candidates. This is yet another big stride toward Canada’s promise of attracting French-speaking talent. A Targeted Draw for Francophone Candidates and Excellence The cut-off score of 444 points, draw shows that IRCC continues with its customised approach toward linguistic and cultural diversity. In fact, this score is two points lower than the previous Francophone-specific draw on September 13, 2024, where an increasing trend in such opportunities for prospective French-speaking migrants who want to make Canada their home was recorded. The tie-breaker date for this draw has been set at 18:56:32 UTC on September 27, 2024. It, therefore, gives an upper hand to the candidates because their profiles can be submitted beforehand. Get a Free Assessment Strengthening Canada’s Francophone Communities This targeted draw is therefore in complete agreement with the more general strategy that has characterised Canada in improving its Francophone minority communities outside Quebec. The federal government has, over time, demonstrated a clear preference for skilled Francophone immigrants as these entrants will be able to enhance the nation’s bilingual character and contribute to the social and economic fabric of the country. As of 2024 to date, IRCC has invited 87,987 applicants under Express Entry. Among them, 21,400 are Francophone applicants. This is a very high percentage of this year’s overall invitations and proves the government commitment to satisfying Canada’s linguistic needs for the third time in a row. Express Entry: A Growing Pool of Talent As of 9th October 2024, the Express Entry pool hosted a total of 209,317 profiles, which is a very broad and diverse pool of interested skilled workers contributing to the economy of Canada. A growing number of such talent pools represents how competitive the express entry system has become as better chances of getting those strong profiles with high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs). Why Should Francophones Act Now? It also places French-speaking applicants at a good position in the state’s increasing focus on foreign talent being Francophone. In fact, the increased interest of the state in promoting Francophone immigration is another promising indicator for those in search of easier and more direct pathways to permanent residency. The assurance of more targeted opportunities to help aspiring candidates who possess French language proficiency, like this one, also makes it just the right time to enter or update their Express Entry profiles. A Win for Linguistic Diversity The draw held on 10 October 2024, targeting Francophone applicants, shows that Canada is committed to duality in languages, one of the basic values that make Canada unique as an immigrants’ destination in the world. By including French-speaking candidates, Canada again confirms its bilingual identity while offering newcomers an opportunity to succeed in a lively and multicultural society. If you want to know more details about “IRCC Issues 1,000 Invitations for Francophone Candidates in Latest Express Entry Draw“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates. Guest post written by Hamlet Gunness |
