According to Canada Immigration News, Canada will start mandatory language tests for open work permits under the International Mobility Program (IMP) starting in 2026.
IRCC’s bold move to start mandatory language tests for open work permits guarantees that temporary foreign workers are able to communicate effectively and fit in properly in Canada’s workforce.
What’s Changing Due to Language Tests for Open Work Permits?
Applicants applying for a New Canada Open Work Permit under the IMP should submit valid language test results from providers such as IELTS, CELPIP, TEF Canada, or TCF Canada.
The IRCC should standardize such tests to match with Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) or French Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC), CLB 5 for non-professional jobs and CLB 7 for professional employment.
Who Will Be Affected By Language Tests For Open Work Permits?
- SOWP applicants
- PGWP recipients
- Certain temporary foreign workers applying for a new Canada Open Work Permit.
The new requirement will have an effect on individuals from all various sectors who use open work permits to live and work in Canada. Language proficiency is required to be shown by applicants in order to communicate effectively in the workplace, involve into Canadian society, and fulfill immigration requirements. Also , the future eligibility for extensions or transitions to permanent residence could also be affected by it.
Why Language Tests for Open Work Permits Matter?
Mandatory Language Tests for Open Work Permits offer three important benefits:
- Prevent exploitation: Ensures applicants are genuine and reduces fraud.
- Promotes workforce integration: Helps workers communicate effectively and collaborate smoothly.
- Support economic and immigration goals: ease the career path and road to your PR journey.
Regulatory Roadmap For Language Tests For Open Work Permits
IRCC has fixed spring/summer 2025 to publish the proposed regulatory changes in the Canada Gazette (Part I), which will initiate a 30-day public comment period. This timeline suggests that IRCC is prepared to go ahead with making compulsory language testing for open work permits a reality by 2026, giving applicants roughly one year of lead time.
Applicants need to make the best use of this changing period by booking a test in advance, and seeking advice from the experts will prevent delays when the rules become operational.
Looking Ahead
If you are advising or assisting applicants—especially spouses—today is the time to prepare. Spouses are advised to register for mandatory language tests for open work permits, so that results remain valid within IRCC’s standard two-year period. As rules change, hiring a Canadian immigration consultant in Edmonton—such as Imperial Immigration—helps ensure that applicants meet all the requirements for the new spousal open work permit eligibility in Canada.
In brief, Canada will implement language tests for open work permits in 2026, a strategic shift designed to encourage integration, prevent fraudulent applications, and enhance economic contributions. Keep up with IRCC’s new policies, and consider hiring the best immigration consultant in Edmonton to help applicants navigate these new requirements successfully.
