Is a Language Test Required for Canadian Immigration?

Do you want to migrate to Canada? If you are looking to make your move through the country’s economic immigration initiatives, proficiency in English or French is essential. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) mandates language testing for 12 economic immigration streams. The Agri-Food Pilot, Atlantic Immigration, and the Caregivers programs are a few where language benchmarks must be met.

Key immigration routes such as the Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, and Canadian Experience Class programs under Express Entry also require test scores. Programs targeting Hong Kong residents, aspiring entrepreneurs under the Start-Up Visa, and those applying through the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot also fall under this criterion.

Candidates will need to identify and register for a test with an approved agency, which comes at a fee. IRCC recognizes three tests for English applicants – the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP-General), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS-General Training), and the Pearson Test of English (PTE Core). French speakers must opt for either the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) Canada or the Test de connaissance du français (TCF) Canada.

After crossing the language test bridge and obtaining your results, the IRCC will verify the language results. If you’re an Express Entry hopeful, input your results in your profile. Test results are a vital component of your application, and they must be current – dated no more than two years. If your test result expiry date is on the horizon; consider a retake to ensure your scores reflect your current abilities. This is particularly vital for maintaining an updated Express Entry profile.

Exploring Canada’s economic immigration programs, understanding the mandatory language requirements is a stepping stone to charting your immigration path. Whether you’re a caregiver, a tech entrepreneur, or a skilled worker, language proficiency is your key to opening the right doors in Canada.

Canadian immigration is an opportunity-filled venture for those who meet the prerequisites, including language proficiency. With several economic immigration programs available, it’s essential to understand the language test requirements and validity for a smooth application process. Prepare accordingly, and you’ll set the stage for potential success in your Canadian immigration journey.

For more information please email us at hello@bisonimmigration.com