Express Entry Draw #405 | 4,000 Francophone Candidates Invited
On March 18, 2026, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 4,000 invitations in the Express Entry draw. The minimum CRS score was 393. This draw is specific to applicants who are proficient in the French language. All candidates who meet the minimum point requirement were invited.
What is the French Language Proficiency Category?
The French language proficiency category under Express Entry is designed to encourage bilingual applicants who can contribute to Canada’s linguistic diversity. To qualify, candidates must demonstrate strong French communication skills by meeting specific Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels in an approved French test such as the TEF Canada or TCF Canada.
This draw gives additional opportunities for French-speaking or bilingual individuals.
Eligibility for the French Speaking Category
To qualify for this category, candidates must:
- Achieve a minimum score of 7 in all four language abilities on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens.
- Fulfill all specific requirements outlined for the draw.
Detailed requirements for each category are available on the Canadian government’s website.
How Can I Apply for Express Entry?
Express Entry is a system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for Canadian permanent residency. It uses a point-based system, the CRS, to rank candidates’ profiles.
Applying to Express Entry is a two-step procedure. The first step is to submit your profile with the required documents. Required documents usually consist of language test results, educational credentials, and passport or travel documentation.
Key Details of Express Entry Draw 405
| Draw Number | 405 |
| Date | March 18, 2026 |
| Category | French-Language Proficiency (2026 – Version 2) |
| Invitations Issued | 4,000 |
| CRS Cut-off Score | 393 |
| Tie-breaking Rule | December 29, 2025, at 12:47:31 UTC |
Although this is merely the third French draw, this category has already issued 18,000 ITAs this year, ranking it second only to the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw in total invitations granted.
ITA’s Issued in 2026
As of March 2026, Canada has conducted 17 Express Entry draws, issuing a total of 53,224 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across all categories.
The increasing frequency of category-based draws, including French-language selection rounds, reflects a more targeted and controlled approach to immigration selection. IRCC continues to prioritize candidates based on language ability, occupational needs, and broader economic objectives.
Ready to Apply for Canada PR Visa? Let Expressway Immigration Help You Succeed!
At Expressway Immigration, our licensed experts help you to assess eligibility, enhance your CRS profile, and choose the best program, whether through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program. Contact Expressway Immigration today to explore your immigration options and take your next step toward becoming a permanent resident of Canada!
How Expressway Immigration™ Can Help
Express Entry is designed to be transparent, but the reality is that competition is fierce, rules shift quickly, and even small mistakes in an application can lead to rejection. This is where Our licensed RCIC consultants can make all the difference.
Our Services Include:
- Profile assessment: to calculate your CRS and recommend improvements.
- Program strategy: to help you choose between Express Entry, PNP, or other immigration streams.
- Strategy development: Crafting a roadmap to boost your CRS and align with future draw eligibility.
- Document preparation: Ensuring your work experience, credentials, language tests and other evidence are ready.
- Application support: to ensure accurate documentation and error-free submission.
- Submission guidance: Helping you prepare for ITA receipt, application timing, and compliance with IRCC requirements.
- Next Express Entry Draw guidance: so you know what to expect and how to prepare.
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