Express Entry French-Language Category: NCLC 7, validity, and deadline
IRCC's French-language category requires NCLC 7 in all four French abilities and the instructions for that round. TCF Canada results must be less than two years old when you complete your Express Entry profile and when you submit your permanent-residence application; after an invitation, you normally have 60 days to apply. NCLC 7 does not guarantee an invitation: eligible candidates are ranked by CRS and must qualify for an Express Entry program.
NCLC 7 in all four abilities
IRCC checks French speaking, listening, reading, and writing separately. Any ability below NCLC 7 misses the category language condition. Enter and convert each TCF Canada result using IRCC's current language-test table rather than relying on a compensating total.
The result must be valid twice
Your result must be less than two years old when you complete your Express Entry profile and when you submit your permanent-residence application. A result can expire after an invitation but before submission, so check the planned submission date, not only the invitation date.
A category is not a program
The French category is for candidates already in the Express Entry pool. You must also qualify for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, or Canadian Experience Class and meet the full instructions for the round.
CRS ranking and the 60-day deadline
IRCC ranks eligible candidates by CRS and may invite the highest-ranked candidates in a category round. After an invitation, the normal deadline to submit the permanent-residence application is 60 days. Cut-offs, round dates, and instructions can change.
Frequently asked questions
- What language level does the French category require?
- NCLC 7 in all four French abilities, plus the instructions for that round.
- When must TCF Canada results be valid?
- They must be less than two years old when you complete the profile and when you submit permanent residence.
- How long do I have after an invitation?
- The normal deadline to submit the application is 60 days after the invitation.
- Does NCLC 7 guarantee an invitation?
- No. CRS ranking, program eligibility, and the round instructions also apply.
Official source
2026-08-22.
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Related guides
- CRS French Points: 25 or 50 Additional Points?
- TCF Canada Scores and NCLC Levels
- TCF Canada vs TEF Canada: Which Should You Choose?
- Using TCF Canada for the Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Using TCF Canada for the Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Using TCF Canada for the Francophone Mobility work permit
- Using TCF Canada for Alberta Accelerated Tech Pathway
- OINP Workforce Priority: French language and TCF Canada requirements
- Immigration guides
This page provides educational information only and is not legal or immigration advice.