To become a Canadian citizen, applicants must demonstrate the ability to communicate in one of Canada’s two official languages—English or French. According to Maple News, this requirement ensures new citizens can effectively engage in Canadian society, from navigating everyday interactions to participating in the workforce and public life.
The minimum standard set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) Level 4 or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) Level 4 in both speaking and listening. This indicates a basic ability to understand and respond to common conversations and instructions.
Language proof is mandatory for applicants aged 18 to 54 at the time of submitting their citizenship application. While reading and writing assessments are not required, applicants must show they can hold short conversations, interpret simple directions, and use foundational grammar correctly.
There are several acceptable ways to demonstrate your language ability. Approved tests for English include CELPIP-General/General LS (minimum score of 4), IELTS General Training (4.5 in listening, 4.0 in speaking), and the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core (28 in listening, 42 in speaking). French-language assessments accepted by IRCC include TEF Canada, TEFAQ, TEF IRN, TCF Canada, TCF Québec, DELF B1 or higher, and any DALF level.
Applicants may also use educational credentials as proof. If you’ve completed secondary or post-secondary education in English or French—whether in Canada or abroad—submit a diploma, certificate, or transcript. For documents in other languages, a certified translation that specifies the language of instruction is required.
Graduates of government-funded language programs can also qualify. Certificates from Canada’s Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) or its French counterpart (CLIC), dated November 1, 2012 or later, are valid if they show CLB or NCLC 4 or above. For older training (2008–2012), IRCC can verify electronically if marked properly on the application.
Certain provinces offer their own recognized language training. For instance, B.C.’s ELSA, Nova Scotia’s PENS, and Manitoba’s EAL reports are accepted as long as they indicate CLB 4 or higher. Quebec applicants can submit language evaluation forms issued by the Ministry of Immigration or the Ministry of Education.
To avoid delays, applicants should include clear copies of language proof with their application. If no valid proof is provided, the entire application will be returned unprocessed. Submitting multiple documents is permitted, and it’s wise to retain personal copies of all materials.
Reusing past language test results from permanent residency applications is acceptable—even if the test has expired—so long as those results showed a CLB/NCLC 4 or higher. However, if there’s any uncertainty, taking a new approved language test can prevent complications.
Maple News emphasizes the importance of meeting these language requirements, as they are central to the citizenship process. Ensuring your documentation is complete and accurate can save time and eliminate the need to reapply.