Maple News reports that language proficiency remains a key criterion for most of Canada’s economic immigration programs. If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada through one of these streams, chances are you’ll need to prove your ability to speak English or French by taking an approved language test.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) currently mandates language testing for applicants across 12 popular economic immigration programs. These include the Agri-Food Pilot, Atlantic Immigration Program, Caregiver pathways, Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot, and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot. Programs under the Express Entry system — such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) — also require language tests. Additionally, the Start-up Visa Program, Self-Employed Persons Program, permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents, and the Federal Internship for Newcomers Program are all part of this list.
While each program has its own language score requirements, all applicants must take an approved test and meet the minimum scores specific to their chosen immigration stream. IRCC accepts five language exams in total: three for English proficiency and two for French.
English test takers can choose from:
– Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP – General)
– International English Language Testing System (IELTS – General Training)
– Pearson Test of English (PTE Core)
French speakers can take:
– Test d’évaluation de français (TEF Canada)
– Test de connaissance du français (TCF Canada)
Applicants are responsible for booking their own tests through an IRCC-approved agency and covering the test fees. Prices may vary depending on the provider and your location.
In summary, if you’re eyeing economic immigration to Canada, verifying your language proficiency will likely be part of the process. Ensuring you meet the minimum language benchmark for your chosen program is not just recommended — it’s essential to qualify.
Maple News advises prospective immigrants to start planning their test early to meet program deadlines and improve eligibility scores for competitive pathways like Express Entry.