Securing Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada has become more competitive than ever. With only 395,000 PR spots available and over 3 million temporary residents vying for them, international students and workers are looking for every edge they can get. One of the most strategic and increasingly popular ways to improve your chances? Learning French. More newcomers, especially in non-priority fields like IT and business, are turning to French to increase their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and keep their Canadian dream alive.
Why French Is Becoming the Secret Weapon for PR Applicants
In the past, French was often seen as a bonus, but today it’s a game-changer. Under Canada’s Express Entry system, French-language skills can add up to 50 extra CRS points, which may make the difference between receiving an invitation or not. For many applicants, this new strategy has become not just an option, but a necessity.
Here’s why French matters more than ever:
- High CRS Cutoffs: Scores needed for invitation rounds are rising.
- Limited PR Spots: Demand far exceeds availability.
- Category-Based Draws: Francophones are increasingly prioritized.
- Dual-Language Jobs: More employers are seeking bilingual candidates.
Real Stories, Real Struggles, Real Results
Take Harbal Deep Sidhu, a mechanical engineering graduate from the University of Windsor. Despite spending over $40,000 on his education, he’s now investing thousands more into learning French in hopes of increasing his CRS score. “It’s hard work,” he says, but it might be his only path forward.
Likewise, Gurasees Singh, an IT student at St. Clair College, admits, “French is the only option that becomes feasible for us.” He knows his field isn’t currently prioritized in immigration draws, but by becoming bilingual, he can open doors to PR and future career opportunities.
The Data Backs It Up
Here’s what’s happening on the ground:
| Statistic | Insight |
| 200%+ | Increase in international students enrolling in French courses at certain colleges |
| 50 | Maximum CRS points you can gain from French-language skills |
| CLB 5 | Minimum benchmark to qualify for Francophone mobility streams |
Immigration experts also agree. Toronto-based immigration lawyer Lou Janssen Dangzalan has been advising clients to learn French for years. “It significantly increases your chances,” he says, “especially if you aim for category-based draws or Francophone pathways.”
The Long-Term Advantage: Beyond Immigration
The benefits of French extend far past PR. Bilingualism opens the door to government jobs, research roles, and other positions where both English and French are essential. For example, Amangel Bhullar, now a Canadian citizen, is learning French to stay competitive in the changing job market. “More bilingual jobs are popping up,” she notes, “and I want to be ready.”
Where and How to Learn French in Canada
Many colleges are responding to the surge in demand. Boreal College, with campuses across Ontario, reported a 222% increase in French program enrolments. Their focus is on practical, conversational skills, which is exactly what immigration exams test.
Ways to start learning French:
- Enroll in certified college programs (e.g., Boreal College)
- Use language apps like Duolingo or Babbel
- Join community-based immersion groups
- Hire private tutors for focused learning
Why Learning French Is a Smart Move
In today’s competitive immigration landscape, knowing French is more than a skill, it’s a strategy. If you’re serious about boosting your CRS score and securing permanent residency in Canada, French might be the key that unlocks the door.
Book a consultation with RCIC today to assess how French-language training can fit into your immigration plan. Our experts at ImmigCanada can guide you step-by-step, from choosing the right course to preparing for your PR application. Want to stay in Canada for good? Learning French may just be your smartest move yet.
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