(CANADA) Canada will soon require language tests for some open work permit applicants under the International Mobility Program, starting in 2026. The new rule, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is set to change how people apply for open work permits, especially for spouses and partners who want to join their loved ones in Canada 🇨🇦.
What’s Changing and Who’s Affected
The main change is that certain open work permit applicants will have to show they can speak, read, write, and understand English or French. This will be measured using the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) for English or the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for French. The rule will likely include spousal open work permits, which are a big part of family reunification in Canada 🇨🇦. Until now, these permits did not require any language testing.
IRCC has not yet listed every open work permit stream that will be affected. However, spousal open work permits are expected to be included because of concerns about protecting vulnerable workers and making sure newcomers can settle well in Canada 🇨🇦. Other streams under the International Mobility Program may also be included, but more details will come as the government finalizes the policy.
How the Language Tests Will Work
Applicants will need to take a test from an approved organization. For English, the accepted tests are IELTS and CELPIP. For French, applicants can take TEF Canada or TCF Canada. These tests will check four skills:
- 📖 Reading
- ✍️ Writing
- 🎧 Listening
- 🗣️ Speaking
Applicants must submit valid test results that are less than two years old when they apply. This matches the current rules for other Canadian immigration programs.
The expected minimum scores are:
- CLB 5 for most general jobs
- CLB 7 for skilled jobs
However, IRCC has not officially confirmed these numbers yet. The government will announce the final score requirements before the new rule starts.
Timeline and Next Steps
The new language test rule is still being developed. Here’s what to expect:
- 📋 Spring or Summer 2025: IRCC will publish the proposed changes in the Canada Gazette, Part I. This is the official place where the government shares new rules.
- 📋 30-Day Public Comment Period: After the proposal is published, anyone can send feedback or concerns to the government.
- 📋 2026 or 2027: The final rule will be published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, and the new requirements will start.
During 2025, IRCC will keep talking with provinces, territories, employers, immigration consultants, and community groups to make sure the rule is fair and clear. They will also discuss possible help for applicants with disabilities.
Why Is Canada 🇨🇦 Making This Change?
The government says the new rule will help newcomers settle better in Canada 🇨🇦 and protect workers from being taken advantage of. Many people who come on open work permits, especially spouses, may face problems if they cannot speak English or French well. They might have trouble finding good jobs or understanding their rights.
A spokesperson for IRCC explained, “Language skills are key for newcomers to succeed in Canada 🇨🇦. This change will help make sure workers can take part in Canadian life and avoid being exploited.”
Concerns and Community Reactions
Not everyone agrees with the new rule. Some immigration experts and community groups worry it could make it harder for families to reunite. People from countries where English or French are not spoken may find it tough to pass the tests. There are also concerns about longer processing times and extra costs for taking the tests.
A Toronto-based immigration consultant shared, “While language skills are important, we need to make sure the process does not keep families apart or create unfair barriers for people who want to build a life in Canada 🇨🇦.”
IRCC says it will listen to feedback and try to balance these concerns. The government is also looking at ways to help applicants with disabilities or those who have trouble accessing language tests.
How Does This Fit With Other Immigration Rules?
This new rule is part of a bigger trend in Canadian immigration. In November 2024, Canada 🇨🇦 started requiring language tests for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. The required scores are CLB 5 or CLB 7, depending on the job or field of study. The government wants to make sure all newcomers have the language skills they need to succeed.
What Should Applicants Do Now?
If you plan to apply for an open work permit under the International Mobility Program in 2026 or later, you should start preparing for the language test. Here are some steps to help you get ready:
- ✅ Check which test you need: Find out if you need to take IELTS, CELPIP, TEF Canada, or TCF Canada.
- ✅ Practice your language skills: Many free and paid resources are available online to help you improve your English or French.
- ✅ Book your test early: Testing centers can get busy, so plan ahead.
- ✅ Keep your results valid: Make sure your test results are less than two years old when you apply.
You can find more information about approved language tests and how to book them on the official IRCC website.
Practical Tips for Success
- ⭐ Take practice tests to get used to the format and timing.
- ⭐ Join a language class if you need extra help.
- ⭐ Ask for help from community organizations or immigration consultants if you have questions.
- ⭐ Keep all your documents in one place so you can apply quickly when the new rule starts.
What Happens Next?
IRCC will keep updating the public as the rule moves forward. Watch for announcements in the Canada Gazette and on the IRCC website. If you are worried about how the new rule might affect you, talk to an immigration consultant or a local community group for advice.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the new language test requirement is a big change for many families and workers hoping to come to Canada 🇨🇦. While the goal is to help newcomers settle and stay safe, it is important to make sure the process stays fair and does not create new barriers.
Final Thoughts
Canada 🇨🇦 is changing its rules for open work permits under the International Mobility Program to include language tests, starting in 2026. This will mostly affect spouses and partners who want to join their families. The government says the change will help newcomers succeed, but some worry it could make things harder for families and people from non-English or non-French speaking countries.
If you plan to apply for an open work permit, start preparing for the language test now. Stay informed by checking the IRCC website and Canada Gazette for updates. With good planning and support, you can meet the new requirements and take the next step toward your future in Canada 🇨🇦.
This Article in a Nutshell
