What are the language requirements I need to meet in order to apply for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class?
The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is the Canadian standard used to describe, measure and recognize language ability of adult immigrants and prospective immigrants who plan to live and work in Canada. To apply under the Canadian Experience Class you will need to take a language test that is approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and demonstrate that you meet the language requirements for your occupation. Your test results need to be included with your application.
If your work experience is in National Occupational Classification (NOC) TEER Category 0 or 1 occupations, you must meet the minimum level of CLB 7 in each language ability (speaking, reading, writing and listening). If your work experience is in NOC TEER Category 2 or 3, you must meet the minimum level of CLB 5 in each language ability (speaking, reading, writing and listening). If you do not meet the minimum language skills needed for your NOC category, your application will not be processed.
Note: Completing an Express Entry profile is the first step to immigrate to Canada permanently as a skilled worker. Completing an Express Entry profile does not guarantee that you will receive an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence. An Invitation to Apply for permanent residence will be based on your score and rank in the Express Entry pool using the Comprehensive Ranking System.
Answers others found useful
- How can I find out what Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level my immigration language test results are equivalent to?
- Where can I get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?
- I’m in the Express Entry pool. How can I look for a job in Canada?
- How do I find my National Occupation Classification (NOC) code?
- Why didn’t I get points for my job offer in Express Entry?
- Do I need to include proof of funds for Express Entry?
Tool
How to videos
Glossary term
- Date modified: