Language Test Requirements for Canadian Immigration

Last updated: 2 February 2024

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You must take a language test that is approved by the Canadian government when you submit an immigration application as a skilled worker.

Completing a test is necessary to demonstrate you meet the language requirements of the skilled worker program you are applying to. 

Complete our FREE assessment to find out if you are eligible for Canadian immigration!


Who needs to complete a language test for Canadian immigration?

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

It is important to note you must take a language test that is approved by the Canadian government. 

Which language tests are approved for Canadian immigration?

The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) approves the following language tests for skilled worker applications:

English

French

What else do I need to know?

Each skilled worker immigration program has its own language test score requirements. The Canadian government uses the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) as a standardised approach to evaluate your language skills. Some skilled worker programs require a CLB level as low as 4, while others require a CLB level of at least 7. It is important to carefully review the requirements of your preferred skilled worker immigration program to understand what CLB level you will need to be eligible for that program.

In addition, the Canadian government has a validity period of two years for language test scores. This means that no more than two years can have elapsed between you completing a test and submitting your Canadian immigration application. You will need to retake the language test if two years have passed and you have not yet submitted an immigration application.

Contact us for Assistance

Cohen Immigration Law is a leading Canadian immigration law firm with over 45 years of experience. Cohen Immigration Law features over 60 immigration lawyers, paralegals, and professionals who are dedicated to helping you immigrate to Canada.

CanadaVisa.com was founded as the online presence of Cohen Immigration Law. Since its launch in 1994, CanadaVisa has grown into one of the globe's most trusted resources on Canadian immigration. If you want to immigrate to Canada through the PNP or another skilled worker pathway, the first step is to complete a free CanadaVisa assessment form. If you are eligible for Canadian immigration, a member of the Cohen Immigration Law team will reach out to provide you with as much assistance as possible.

Complete our FREE assessment to find out if you are eligible for Canadian immigration!