IELTS

Canada is preparing to introduce a new language requirement for certain open work permit applicants under the International Mobility Program (IMP), with Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP) expected to be among the affected streams. The proposal, introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is still in development and has not yet been implemented.

If approved, applicants would need to demonstrate proficiency in English or French through language tests such as IELTS. Test results would need to meet specific Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels and be no more than two years old. While the exact requirements have not been finalized, the policy is expected to set a minimum of CLB 5 for general roles and CLB 7 for skilled positions.

IRCC says the proposed change is aimed at improving workforce integration, strengthening the integrity of the immigration system, and reducing the risk of fraud, including contract marriages.

A draft of the regulatory change is expected to be published in summer 2025, followed by a 30-day public consultation. If adopted, the new requirement could come into effect in 2026 or 2027.

While Spousal Open Work Permits are likely to be impacted, other IMP streams such as Bridging Open Work Permits, Intra-Company Transferees, and Free Trade Agreement professionals are expected to remain exempt.

IRCC has not yet confirmed the full scope of the policy or which applicants will be required to meet the new language standards. Further details are expected following consultations throughout 2025.

Recent reports show a noticeable increase in Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) refusals, even though the process is usually straightforward. Applicants often underestimate how small errors or missing documents can lead to a rejection.

An Iranian home renovation manager's work permit was denied by the Canadian Federal Court due to her IELTS score of 5.

If you have accumulated at least 6 months related work experience within the past 3 years and can provide minimum IELTS 6 in each proficiency you are eligible to apply for Permanent residency through Express Entry.

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has just announced that it will accept language test results from four new tests for Student Direct Stream (SDS) applicants.

PTE will join IELTS and CELPIP as one of three English-language tests that economic class candidates will be able to use for their Canadian immigration applications.

Applicants who have accumulated minimum of 6 months related work experience in the last 3 year (Canada or overseas) in one of the following occupations may apply for permanent residency if they can provide IELTS general test result of 5 in each proficiency.

Applicants with a minimum of 6 months related work experience in the last 3 years in one of the following occupations may apply for permanent residency of Canada. IELTS general 6 in each proficiency is required for eligibility.

If you have accumulated, minimum of 6 months of related work experience in one of the following occupations and able to provide IELTS general language test result of 6 in each proficiency, are eligible to apply for permanent residency of Canada.

As of January 30th, 2024, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core test will now be accepted for all immigration pathways.

Applicants with a minimum of 6 months related work experience in the last 3 years in one of the following 3 occupations may apply for permanent residency of Canada. IELTS general 6 in each proficiency is required for eligibility.

The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the administrator of the TOEFL exam, announced that it has been added as a designated language testing organization by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is the standard for assessing English proficiency in Canada, essential for immigration and citizenship applications.

Canada’s federal and provincial skilled worker immigration programs require that you complete a language test. The language test requirement applies to the federal Express Entry system, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and Canada’s other various skilled worker streams.