Canadian Experience Class

Language Requirements

Being able to communicate and work in one or both of Canada’s official languages is very important. Knowing English, French or both helps you in the Canadian job market.

You must prove your ability in English or French to qualify for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class.

Your occupation (job) will determine the language abilities you require to immigrate under the Canadian Experience Class. The requirements vary according to job classification under the National Occupation Classification system (NOC).

If you do not meet the minimum language skill requirement for your NOC category, your application for permanent residence under the Canadian Experience Class will be refused.

Proof of your language abilities

If you have some abilities in both English and French, decide which of the two is your first official language. The other is your second official language.

You must prove your abilities in your first official language only. There are two ways to do this. You can:

• take a test from a designated testing agency or
• provide written proof of your abilities.

Note: If your first language is neither French nor English, CIC recommends taking a language test from an approved organization before starting the application process. This will help you find out if you meet the minimum language requirement.