Acquiring a Canadian Permanent Residency requires proof of language proficiency, and language skills do matter for settling into life and work in Canada. The most common test is IELTS, but is it required for all immigration programs? Depends on the pathway you choose. 

IELTS isn’t the only option among other language tests; plus CELPIP, Canada has its own alternative for English. Also, French test scores can be submitted through TEF/TCF. Canada PR processing time from India takes up to approximately 6 to 8 months, but due to several factors, it can extend up to 12 months.

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an English language test of international standard for assessing the English language proficiency of candidates in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The test has been recognized by more than 11000 institutions; it is a vital component for immigration, education, and employment in countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and New Zealand.


 According to applicants for Canadian PR, the IELTS General Training Test is for practical language skills relevant to everyday life and work. A good score in IELTS improves PR eligibility and increases CRS points under Express Entry, thus improving selection chances.

IELTS Test Versions: General vs. Academic

IELTS has two versions:

  • IELTS General Training: It is designed for immigration and work purposes. This is the version required for Canada PR.

  • IELTS Academic: This is considered for students applying to universities or colleges. This is not valid for PR applications.

IELTS Test Format and Scoring

The test has four sections, each scored on a 0–9 band scale:

  • Listening (30 mins) – This assesses your ability to understand a two-way conversation in various accents.

  • Reading (60 mins) – This includes various text types with multiple-choice, matching, and true/false questions.

  • Writing (60 mins) – This consists of two tasks: a letter/report and an essay.

  • Speaking (11–14 mins) – This is a face-to-face interview analyzing fluency, coherence, and pronunciation.

Is IELTS Mandatory for Express Entry Canada PR?

The Express Entry System in Canada constitutes the fastest pathway known for skilled workers to attain CANADA PERMANENT RESIDENCY. Although language proficiency is a mandatory  requirement, it is not the only one accepted by the IELTS exam.

It is so because Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recognizes other language examinations as well, thus offering applicants a plethora of options to choose from in order to demonstrate their proficiency in either English or French.

Accepted Language Tests for Express Entry

For English Proficiency, candidates can take:

  • IELTS General Training (most widely recognized worldwide).

  • CELPIP General (Canada-specific English test).

  • PTE Core (recently approved by IRCC).

For French Proficiency, candidates can take:

  • TEF Canada (Test d’Évaluation de Français).

  • TCF Canada (Test de Connaissance du Français).

How Does IELTS Impact CRS Scores in Express Entry?

Higher language test scores can improve CRS rankings, which will increase the chances of receiving an ITA.

IELTS and CRS Points:

  • CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0 in all sections)- This is the minimum requirement for Federal Skilled Worker eligibility.

  • CLB 9+ (IELTS L: 8.0, R: 7.0, W: 7.0, S: 7.0) – Strongly increases CRS through skill transferability.

  • CLB 10+ (IELTS L: 8.5+, others 8.0+) – gives maximum CRS points for language proficiency.

IELTS Score and Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)

In Canada, IELTS scores are converted into CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) scores. The higher the applicant's CLB level, the better it is for that person in immigration programs such as Express Entry.

Applicants must use their IELTS score to determine the level of CLB by using the table below:

CLB LEVEL

READING

WRITING

LISTENING

SPEAKING

7

6.0

6.0

6.0-7.0

6.0

8

6.5

6.5

7.5

6.5

9

7.0

7.0

8.0

7.0

10 and above 

8.0-9.0

7.5-9.0

8.5-9.0

7.5-9.0

Express Entry Programs and Language Requirements

Express Entry includes three main immigration streams, each with specific language criteria:


What are the Minimum IELTS Scores for Express Entry Eligibility?

For candidates applying for Permanent Residency via Express Entry, their eligibility is affected by different factors, such as the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. The table below highlights key factors affecting Express Entry eligibility:

FACTOR

DETAILS

AGE

Maximum points for ages 18-35; fewer points awarded as age increases.

EDUCATION

Higher points for advanced degrees; minimum requirement: Canadian higher secondary equivalent.

WORK EXPERIENCE

At least one year of skilled work experience is required; more experience earns higher points.

ADAPTABILITY

Up to 10 points for having close family in Canada or a spouse with language proficiency.

ARRANGED EMPLOYMENT

A valid job offer from a Canadian employer adds 10 points.

IELTS and Other Canadian Immigration Pathways

  • Express Entry isn't the only immigration pathway – Provincial Nominee Program (PNPs), Quebec-specific programs, and business immigration provide other alternatives.

  • Language proficiency is essential across all programs and directly impacts eligibility and points.

Only IELTS General Training is accepted for Express Entry and PNPs - IELTS Academic is not valid for immigration.