Can an Immigration Applicant Apply for a Work Permit Based on Academic IELTS?

Canada’s work permit requires only the score of IELTS General Education, and not the score of IELTS Academic.

The important thing you need to know is that to apply, almost every type of economic immigration to Canada needs the results of a language test. The version of the exam you need and the appropriate scores depends on the immigration category under which you apply. 

The Reason- Why the right Choice of IELTS is important for getting Work Permit for Canada?

You will need to show your English skills to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to obtain a Canadian visa.

IELTS is one of the most successful high-stakes English language tests in the world, having taken 3 million tests in the past year. For almost all educational organizations, professional associations and employers across Canada, it’s the English test of choice. 

Besides, IELTS is recognized by all universities and colleges in Canada, as well as by all professional associations that set minimum language requirements for professional enrollment.

IELTS for Immigration in Canada

The two official languages of Canada include French and English. All immigrants are required to speak, write, read, and listen fluently, in either language. 

The Department of Canadian Immigration has been able to ensure that any foreign national who immigrates to Canada can communicate effectively with others by enforcing language proficiency.

Canada relies heavily on a candidate’s IELTS scorecard to judge his / her English language skills before approving his / her study, job or PR application. IELTS results are recognized as proof of English language proficiency by all universities, provincial and federal government agencies and other organizations throughout Canada. Applicants for permanent residency are also approved by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

How to Get the Work Permit?

The paths to enter the pool are different, with Canada offering three separate programs within Express Entry. Check below the following options to get a work permit in Canada.

• Federal Skilled Worker Class (FSWC): For workers classified under a unique system of FSWC ratings. Eligible individuals will receive at least 67 out of every 100 points. Up to 28 points are available for language skills, plus an additional 5 points if you apply with an English- or French-speaking spouse / common-law partner.
• Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC): Traders having relevant skill experience.
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Individuals having current/ recent work experience of Canada.
• For each category of the workers, the scores will be different as the skills and experience for each option may change accordingly.

Language Test for Express Entry/Skilled Worker 

Under Express Entry, three language tests are accepted. The approved criteria and the minimum eligibility requirements shall be as follows:

• General Test IELTS (English): Minimum score: 6.0 for all four categories
• The General CELPIP Test (English, available only in Canada): Minimum score required: 4L across all four categories.
• TEF: French Evaluation Test (Test d evaluation de Francais): Scores needed: Speaking: 310-348 Listening: 249-279 Reading: 207 – 232 Writing: 310-348.

Scoring below the requirement means you won’t be eligible to apply for the work permit. It should also be noted that having the minimum language scores required to apply doesn’t necessarily mean that you are eligible to apply. 

Remember, whether you reach the Federal Skilled Worker program’s 67-point pass mark would depend on other factors too and not just language skills.

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Shobha Vats

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