Canada has delivered major immigration news with a new Express Entry draw on February 6, 2026, issuing a massive 8,500 permanent residence (PR) invitations in a single round. This latest Express Entry draw was conducted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and targeted candidates under the French-language proficiency category.
With a CRS cut-off score of just 400, this IRCC Express Entry draw is being seen as one of the most accessible Express Entry draws in recent years, especially for French-speaking skilled workers. The February 6 Express Entry draw clearly signals Canada’s continued focus on strengthening Francophone communities outside Quebec.
February 6, 2026 Express Entry Draw: Key Highlights
The February 6 Express Entry draw stands out not only for the high number of invitations but also for its low CRS requirement.
Express Entry Draw Details (February 6, 2026)
| Draw Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Draw Date | February 6, 2026 |
| Express Entry Category | French-language proficiency |
| Total PR Invitations Issued | 8,500 |
| CRS Cut-Off Score | 400 |
| Tie-breaking Rule | February 3, 2026, at 11:11:44 UTC |
This Express Entry draw on February 6 is one of the largest category-based draws ever, making it a landmark moment in Canada immigration news for 2026.
Why This Express Entry Draw Is Making Headlines
Several factors make this IRCC Express Entry draw especially important:
- One of the largest French-language Express Entry draws in history
- CRS score of 400, much lower than many CEC or PNP draws
- Clear evidence that French-language proficiency Express Entry draws are a priority in 2026
- Strong opportunity for candidates who may not qualify under other Express Entry categories
For many candidates, this Express Entry draw on February 6 may represent their best chance at Canadian PR.
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Understanding the French-Language Proficiency Express Entry Category
The French-language proficiency category is part of Canada’s category-based Express Entry system, introduced to address long-term demographic and economic goals.
Unlike general draws, category-based Express Entry draws allow IRCC to invite candidates with specific skills or language abilities, even if their CRS score is not very high.
Why IRCC prioritizes French-language proficiency
- Supports Francophone minority communities outside Quebec
- Strengthens Canada’s bilingual identity
- Helps meet federal immigration targets for Francophone newcomers
Since its launch, the French-language Express Entry category has consistently produced large PR invitation rounds, and the February 6 Express Entry draw reinforces this trend.
Who Was Eligible for the February 6 Express Entry Draw
To qualify for this Express Entry draw, candidates had to meet all of the following conditions:
Eligibility requirements
- An active Express Entry profile
- Eligibility under FSWP, FSTP, or CEC
Valid French language test results from:
- TEF Canada, or
- TCF Canada
Minimum NCLC level 7 in:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
Candidates meeting these criteria and scoring 400 CRS points or higher were eligible for selection in this IRCC Express Entry draw.
Canada’s Francophone Immigration Plan Behind This Draw
The February 6 Express Entry draw directly aligns with Canada’s long-term Francophone immigration strategy.
Francophone immigration targets
- 2026 target: 9% of PR admissions outside Quebec
- 2027 target: 9.5%
- 2028 target: 10.5%
- Long-term goal: 12% by 2029
The federal government has confirmed that Canada exceeded its Francophone immigration target in 2025, and large French-language Express Entry draws like this one are a major reason why.
In addition, starting in 2026:
- 5,000 extra immigration spaces are reserved nationally for French-speaking candidates
- These are separate from regular PNP quotas, increasing total opportunities
This means French-speaking candidates now benefit from multiple Express Entry and provincial pathways.
What Happens After Receiving an Express Entry Invitation
Candidates selected in the February 6 Express Entry draw must act quickly.
Next steps after receiving an ITA
- Submit a complete PR application within 60 days
Upload:
- Valid French language test results
- Identity documents
- Education credentials and ECA (if required)
- Work experience proof
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical examination results
IRCC aims to process most Express Entry PR applications within six months, although timelines may vary.
A critical point: French test results must remain valid until IRCC receives the complete PR application. Expired results can lead to refusal.
Why This Express Entry Draw Changes the Game for Candidates
This new Express Entry draw on February 6 sends a strong message:
- French language skills are one of the most powerful assets in Express Entry
- CRS scores around 400 can now be competitive
- Regular French-language Express Entry draws are expected in 2026
For candidates with French proficiency, the Express Entry system has never been more accessible.
Conclusion: A Major Express Entry Opportunity in 2026
The IRCC Express Entry draw of February 6, 2026, with 8,500 PR invitations and a CRS cut-off of 400, marks a turning point in Canada immigration trends this year. It confirms that French-language proficiency Express Entry draws are not just frequent—but also generous.
Candidates with French skills should take this as a clear signal to enter or update their Canada Express Entry profiles immediately.
How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help You
Visa Solutions 4u supports Express Entry candidates by:
- Checking Express Entry eligibility and CRS score
- Advising on French-language proficiency pathways
- Helping improve CRS through strategic planning
- Managing Express Entry profiles and PR applications
- Guiding candidates through IRCC documentation and timelines
With Express Entry draws moving fast in 2026, expert guidance can make the difference between waiting and receiving an invitation.
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