Canada to Require Language Testing for Certain Open Work Permits by 2026
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is preparing to introduce a significant policy change that will require language proficiency testing for some applicants under the International Mobility Program (IMP), with spousal open work permit (SOWP) holders expected to be among the affected groups.
This upcoming requirement, planned for 2026 or 2027, is designed to improve workforce integration, prevent exploitation, and ensure that Canada continues to attract skilled and communicative talent.
What is the International Mobility Program (IMP)?
The IMP allows employers to hire temporary foreign workers without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It includes streams such as:
- International Experience Canada (IEC) – likely exempt from language testing.
- Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWP) – expected to require testing under the new rule.
- Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) – may or may not be affected.
- Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP) – likely exempt.
- Intra-Company Transferees – likely exempt.
- Significant Benefit Categories, FTA Professionals, Charitable/Religious Work – expected to remain exempt.
Open work permits issued under the IMP allow holders to work for any employer, in any location, without job-specific restrictions.
What’s Changing?
Under the proposed amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, certain IMP open work permit applicants will be required to:
- Take an approved English or French test (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP, TEF Canada, TCF Canada).
- Meet minimum scores aligned with the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or NCLC standards — anticipated CLB 5 for general roles, CLB 7 for skilled jobs.
- Provide test results less than two years old.
The change will standardize language requirements, removing subjective evaluation and ensuring fairness.
Why This Matters
IRCC’s objectives include:
- Preventing exploitation – particularly contract marriages used to obtain SOWPs.
- Enhancing integration – language proficiency helps workers communicate effectively and adapt to Canadian workplaces.
- Supporting the economy – language-ready workers can fill urgent labour shortages.
- Aligning with permanent residency goals – stronger language skills make transitions to PR smoother.
Impact on Stakeholders
Applicants – SOWP applicants will need to prepare for and pass language tests, which could open doors to higher-paying, skilled jobs.
Families – Better integration leads to increased financial stability and reduced dependency.
Employers – Language-proficient hires adapt faster, boosting productivity and reducing training costs.
Canada – This change reinforces public trust in the immigration system and supports economic priorities.
Challenges – Accessibility of in-person testing, preparation time, and uncertainty over which streams will be affected remain concerns.
Timeline
- Spring/Summer 2025 – Pre-publication of changes in Canada Gazette, Part I, with 30-day public consultation.
- 2026/2027 – Final publication in Canada Gazette, Part II, and implementation.
How to Prepare
- Start language training now (target CLB 5–7).
- Practice with sample tests for IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF.
- Find your nearest testing centre early.
- Stay informed via IRCC announcements.
- Consult an RCIC to ensure readiness and compliance.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
