Do I need a language test to immigrate to Canada?
Many economic immigration programs require a language test to qualify. You’ll need to:
- schedule your test with an approved agency
- pay the test costs
Programs that require a language test
- Agri-food pilot
- Atlantic Immigration program
- Caregivers
- Economic Mobility Pathways pilot
- Express Entry
- Federal Internship for Newcomers program
- Permanent residence pathways for Hong Kong residents
- Rural and Northern Immigration pilot
- Self-employed Persons program
- Start-up visa program
What to include in your application
If you’re applying for Express Entry, you’ll enter your test scores directly into your profile.
If you’re applying any of the other programs above, include a copy of the test results with your application.
These results must be less than 2 years old when you apply. Keep a copy of them for your records and future use.
Language tests we accept
You can take any of these approved language tests:
English
- CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program
- You need to take the CELPIP – General test.
- IELTS: International English Language Testing System
- You need to take the IELTS General Training test.
- PTE Core
French
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Tool
IRCC Explains: Express Entry
Glossary term
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