Minimum language requirements for Express Entry Canada

 If you want to meet the Canada Express Entry eligibility, you would probably need to take a language test. Although there are numerous language tests out there, only a handful of those are accepted for Canada Immigration. 

With some exceptions such as Family Sponsorship and Temporary Immigration Programs like Visitor Visa – most Canadian economic immigration programs require proof of language – demonstrated by an authorized language test in either English or French. 

For Canada Express Entry eligibility and aligned pathways including Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – this is mandatory. Even if English or French is your first language. The government still needs a piece of paper to prove it. 



Express Entry: Accepted Language Tests

All candidates wanting to meet the Canada Express Entry eligibility are required to maintain a valid language test in their profile. If your language tests expire before the final decision of your permanent residency application – you will need to retake it. Also, if your language test results expire while you’re still in the Express Entry pool, your profile will become ineligible. 

There are three different programs that are managed under the Express Entry system. Each of these programs has its own minimum language requirement. 

  1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)


  • Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or,

  • Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French


  1. Federal Skilled Trade Program (FSTP)


  • Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or,

  • Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French


  1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)


  • Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 in English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 5 in French for speaking and listening and,

  • Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 in English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 4 in French for reading and writing

Candidates can gain additional language points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) – if they apply with their spouses. 

English

  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) General (do not take the IELTS Academic test, even if it sounds more impressive – it is not accepted)

  • Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) General

Both tests are accepted to meet the Canada Express Entry eligibility, but considering the minimum IELTS score for Canada PR is more widely available and widely accepted worldwide. 

French

  • TEF Canada

  • TCF Canada

How to get Canada PR without language tests?

There are numerous pathways offered by the Canadian government that fail to meet the Canada Express Entry eligibility. Some of the popular ones include: 

  • Choose an alternative.

  • Canada’s Family Reunification program.

  • Work in high-demand jobs in Canada!

  • Enroll in a Canadian academic program.

Even if English is your first language, it is a good idea to prepare for your language test. 

Achieving the required TEF or minimum IELTS score for Canada PR is a dream for many immigrants. Queries such as, “how many bands are required for Canada” and “tips to get a high language score” have drastically increased among aspiring immigrants wanting to study, work, and settle in Canada. 

Most immigrants that fail to meet the Canada Express Entry eligibility usually tend to neglect this. A better language test result can play a pivotal role in increasing your scores. If you haven’t already achieved the maximum bandwidth – try reappearing for the tests – and achieving the same. 

Learn More About Canada Immigration

How many IELTS bands required for Canada PR?

7 Easy steps to get PR in Canada from India

Tips to know before applying under Canada Express Entry


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