Most categories under which you can apply for immigration to Canada require some proof of linguistic ability. Applicants who seek Canadian citizenship and are in the age group 18-54 have to provide proof that they can speak and understand English/French (which are the official languages of the country) at certain benchmark levels.
Why Language Abilities Are Important
If you are applying for immigration under the Express Entry program, linguistic ability is an important factor.
- Language is an important element in the Core Human Factor section
- Language proficiency is one of the most important factors in social and cultural integration of immigrants into the host country and enhances their communication skills
- Language skills open up many more employment opportunities, higher wages and more permanent jobs anywhere in the host country
- Lack of language skills can be an obstacle to understanding rights, political issues, progress in career, transferability of skills
- Language promotes better choices in terms of marriage, selecting educational opportunities for children, health and social integration
The Importance of Language Tests
Regardless of your country of origin, the country’s immigration regulations require proof of your language skills. Even native speakers of English and French have to submit test results. The CRS scoring system is completely standardized and unbiased. Ability in English and/or French can boost your ranking considerably. Hence, enrolling in a training program can be beneficial. An experienced, well-established, reputed immigration consultant can provide the right assistance and advice.
However, the tests you take have to be one of those authorized by the IRCC (Immigration Refugee Citizenship Canada). Results have to be provided for these only and not any other tests. No test is favored above the others and all the three testing bodies authorized by the IRCC are of equal importance and you can submit results from any of these.
Accepted Language Tests
Tests have to be taken only by the designated authorized organizations. These are:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- TEF (Test d’evaluation de Francais)
To be considered valid, results must be current, that is, you should have taken them within the last 24 months. If you feel that you can do better, you can re-take the test and submit your best results.
All the tests have four components: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Scores on these are converted into CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) or NCLC (Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens) ranging from 4 (poor) to 10 (excellent). Different immigration programs may have different CLB requirements.
IELTS: Has two categories: General Training and Academic. Testing centers are available in most major cities worldwide. For Express Entry program, you must take the General Training test. The overall band score doesn’t matter, but a good score can boost your chances of finding suitable employment and can indicate better social integration.
CELPIP: Is specifically designed for Canadian English and was earlier available only in Canada. Now there is a test center in Dubai.
TEF: Has two categories: TEF and TEFAQ. The latter is accepted only for Quebec immigration, while TEF is accepted generally as well as for Quebec.
The minimum score required on these tests depends on the program you apply for.