IRCC Updates Language Requirements for Canadian Immigration June 2026

Canadian immigration has specific language requirements that vary depending on which program you apply through. Whether you are applying for permanent residence through Express Entry, a provincial nominee program, or a family sponsorship, knowing exactly what language proof you need will save you time and prevent a refusal.

IRCC accepts test results from approved language testing organizations. The test you take, the scores you need, and how long your results stay valid all depend on the program and the language. Here is what you need to know before you apply.

Which Language Tests IRCC Accepts

For English, IRCC accepts two tests: the IELTS General Training and the CELPIP General. Both measure the same four abilities: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. You do not need to take both. Pick one and submit those results with your application.

For French, IRCC accepts the TEF Canada and the TCF Canada. Like the English tests, these measure all four language abilities. If French is your first language and you are applying through a French-language or bilingual stream, make sure you take the correct version. Some versions of the TEF and TCF are designed for other purposes and are not accepted by IRCC. The TEF Canada and TCF Canada are the only two accepted.

All four tests must be taken at an authorized testing centre. You cannot submit results from unofficial practice tests or online versions that are not proctored. Check IRCC processing times before you book your test so your results arrive before your application deadline.

Each testing organization sets its own schedule and fees. IELTS and CELPIP test centres operate across Canada and internationally. TEF Canada and TCF Canada centres are also available in many countries. Book early, especially if you are in a country with limited testing locations.

How Scores Map to Language Levels

IRCC uses the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English and the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for French. These are standardized scales that let IRCC compare results across different tests. Your raw test score gets converted to a CLB or NCLC level before IRCC evaluates your application.

The minimum CLB or NCLC level you need depends on the program. Express Entry programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program generally require CLB 7. The Canadian Experience Class also requires CLB 7 for skilled jobs, though lower-skilled occupations may require CLB 5. Federal Skilled Trades applicants need CLB 5 for reading and writing, and CLB 4 for listening and speaking. Provincial nominee programs set their own thresholds, which can be higher or lower than the federal minimums.

When IRCC officers review your scores, they look at each of the four abilities separately. Getting a high score in speaking does not compensate for a low score in writing. Each ability must meet the minimum on its own.

How Long Your Test Results Stay Valid

Language test results are valid for two years from the date you took the test. This applies to all four accepted tests. If your results expire before IRCC makes a decision on your application, you may need to retest.

For Express Entry specifically, your results must be valid on the day you submit your profile to the pool. They must also still be valid when IRCC issues you an Invitation to Apply (ITA). If your results expire while you are in the pool, update your profile with new results before they expire. Letting them lapse can cause your profile to be removed from the pool entirely.

Two years sounds like a long time, but the full application process can take more than a year for some programs. Book your test well in advance, but not so early that your results expire before you get a decision. If you are close to the two-year mark, it is usually safer to retest than to risk a refusal.

For citizenship applications, language requirements work differently. Applicants between 18 and 54 must demonstrate language ability, but the citizenship process uses evidence gathered throughout the application rather than a single standardized test score.

Who Can Be Exempt From Language Testing

Not everyone applying for permanent residence needs to submit a language test. Exemptions exist for certain applicants. If you are applying under a humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) application, language testing may be waived depending on your circumstances. Some spousal sponsorship cases also have different language requirements since the obligation falls on the sponsor rather than the sponsored person.

Age exemptions apply in some programs. Applicants under 18 or over a certain age threshold may not need to demonstrate language ability in the same way. Check the specific requirements for the stream you are applying through on the IRCC official website before assuming you are exempt.

Officers can also request additional language evidence if they have doubts about an applicant's ability, even when a test result has been submitted. Submit results that genuinely reflect your current level. Do not attempt a test before you are ready just to meet a deadline. A low score can affect your CRS points in Express Entry and reduce your chances of receiving an invitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use IELTS Academic instead of IELTS General Training?
No. IRCC only accepts the IELTS General Training version for immigration purposes. The Academic version is used for education admissions and is not valid for IRCC applications.

My test results expired while I was waiting for a decision. What happens now?
Contact IRCC through your online account and submit new valid results as soon as possible. If your application has not yet been decided, you may be able to update your file. Do not wait to see if IRCC notices.

Can I submit results in both English and French?
Yes. Submitting scores in both languages can increase your CRS points in Express Entry. You must submit results from an accepted test for each language separately.

Is CELPIP accepted outside Canada?
CELPIP test centres are available in several countries, but the network is smaller than IELTS. Check the CELPIP website for locations in your country before deciding which test to take.

Sources: Government of Canada (canada.ca), IRCC Help Centre. Last verified: June 29, 2026. This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult IRCC or a qualified legal aid service for guidance on your specific situation.