At the Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association (CILA) inaugural conference on October 28, 2025, I had the privilege of engaging in a compelling discussion about the direction of our immigration system – particularly the way French-speaking applicants are being selected through the Express Entry model.
During one of the sessions, my colleague Mark Holthe noted that 41% of applicants selected under Express Entry draws last year were French speakers. This figure does not include candidates who were selected under other targeted or general draws but still received extra points for partial French-language ability.
The Problem: Selection, Numbers, and What Immigration Is Supposed to Be About
Express Entry was created to manage Canada’s economic immigration streams and to identify candidates who can “successfully economically establish in Canada.” But with a 21% reduction in permanent-residence intake, new dynamics have emerged – where French-speaking candidates are the “winners,” while senior executives and other English-dominant applicants may be disadvantaged.
This shift raises important questions:
Is this truly a reflection of Canada’s labour-market needs, or are other political objectives at play?
There is no doubt that increasing francophone immigration is a national goal, but if a particular linguistic group benefits disproportionately, we must ask whether the system is transparent and fair. Perhaps it is time for a standalone francophone-immigration category – one that clearly outlines the policy objective and ensures accountability.
Key Themes Discussed at the CILA Conference
CILA’s first national conference, held in 2025, brought together hundreds of lawyers, policymakers, academics, and advocates from across the country to examine the evolving challenges and opportunities in immigration law.
Panel sessions covered a wide range of current issues, including:
- Practice Management and Visibility in the Digital World – helping lawyers navigate technology and grow their professional presence.
- Making Sense of the Numbers in Immigration Law – examining trends in Express Entry, IRCC processing, and the changing economic landscape.
- What’s New at Canada’s Borders? – exploring CBSA priorities, enforcement practices, and cross-border cooperation.
- Strategies for Combating Growing Processing Times – sharing solutions for efficiency and advocacy as backlogs persist.
These sessions underscored how CILA has quickly become a hub for collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking in Canadian immigration law.
The Role and Purpose of CILA
CILA was conceived in 2020 and formally incorporated on January 1, 2021, by a group of lawyers who saw the need for a national, independent association dedicated to the advancement of immigration law in Canada.
Today, CILA:
- Provides independent commentary on immigration law, policy, and program design.
- Advocates for access to counsel, rule of law, and fairness across all immigration processes.
- Builds a professional community of lawyers, students, and academics engaged in improving Canada’s immigration system.
As CILA’s first President (2021-2023), I’m proud to have seen the organization evolve from an idea to a national voice that promotes mentorship, advocacy, and legal excellence.
The Implications for Applicants and Policy
The 41% francophone selection rate has real implications:
- If one linguistic group is prioritized, is it due to economic demand or political intent?
- Senior executives and professionals who are English-dominant may face reduced chances despite their experience.
- Applicants may want to consider improving their French-language proficiency as a strategic advantage.
- Policymakers should consider transparent, standalone categories to clarify objectives and maintain fairness.
What This Means for Clients and Stakeholders
- Skilled workers: Investing in French-language skills can be a differentiator.
- Employers: Monitor how language-based selection may affect recruitment or executive mobility.
- Students and workers: Francophone pathways are strong, but success still depends on economic establishment and adaptability.
- Policymakers: Striking a balance between political priorities and economic needs is essential for a fair and effective immigration system.
At Jain Immigration Law, we remain committed to analyzing policy trends and advocating for fairness, transparency, and balance in Canada’s immigration programs. Through CILA’s growing community, we continue to shape meaningful dialogue that helps both applicants and practitioners navigate a rapidly changing system.
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