Language - To test or not to test?

[Crofter]

Hi all,

Ok what is the first of probably many silly questions as I work through the immigration paperwork. English is my native language (born and bred UK). NOw I see that I have to submit proof of language ability, which is through a test.

My question is this, as I do not speek French do I still need to have someone test me to say that I don't speak it, or is the declaration that I have no French ability enough (assuming that even if it was only basic, that would then require testing)?

[AllisonVSC]

I believe the new law requires you to take only the English proficiency test (at a cost of close to $300!!). You do not have to prove proficiency in both, but I suppose there might be some equivalent requirement to test in French if you intend to immigrate to Quebec.

There no longer seems to be a way to demonstrate "mother-tongue" English proficiency though the new law is being challenged and things may change. You might be interested in reading these posts regarding the new law.

http://www.expatforum.com/canada/critics-hit-out-at-new-canadian-obligatory-english-test-for-all-immigrants.html

[angelbrat]

Hi all,

Ok what is the first of probably many silly questions as I work through the immigration paperwork. English is my native language (born and bred UK). NOw I see that I have to submit proof of language ability, which is through a test.

My question is this, as I do not speek French do I still need to have someone test me to say that I don't speak it, or is the declaration that I have no French ability enough (assuming that even if it was only basic, that would then require testing)?

Only if you are applying in the FSW category.

Everyone is now required to take the IELT`s.

If you applying in any other category, the answer is no, you do not need the IELT. Coming from the UK, you will ace the test of course but have a little burning hole in the pocket....

[Crofter]

Thanks for your input,

I intend on applying as a FSW, and from what I can gather you are all saying is, that I only need to prove proficiency in one language (English) and not both (English + French).

I have looked at the next test date close to my location and it is early Dec 2010. So better get booking; and for those who are interested the test fee is £110 to tell me I can speak English.....ouch!!!!