Canada is planning to introduce a revolutionary change in its open work permit immigration policy. From next year 2026, IRCC may implement language tests for applicants applying under International Mobility Program (IMP)- spousal open work permit (SOWP) comes under this program.
This means applicants of Spousal Open Work Permit may soon have to secure required language test results to come to Canada on open work permit.
This step aims to strengthen up the Canadian Immigration system moreover its supports better workforce integration plus ensures newcomers to Canada are equipped with the communication skills required for long term success in the Canadian economy.
What is Canada Open Work Permit
The Canada open work permit a legal document from Canadian government that grants you legal rights to work in Canada anywhere plus for any employer, without the requirement of LMIA. It comes under International Mobility Program (IMP).
The IMP constitutes variety of streams such as :
- Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
- Intra-Company Transfers
- Free Trade Agreement Permits
- Significant Benefit Workers
- Charitable or Religious Worker
The language testing requirements are now mandatory for PGWP applicants and soon IRCC will implement this on SOWP while other streams will remain exempt.
This will be first time in the history of Canada when spouses of international students and work permit holders have to pass the English or French languages test results to be eligible for open work permits.
Accepted Language Tests by IRCC
These are the following language test exams an applicant can prepare for to meet the IRCC requirements:
- IELTS (General) – English
- CELPIP (General) – English
- TEF Canada – French
- TCF Canada – French
Accepted scores
The accepted score can range from CLB 7 to CLB 5 depending upon on the skill of the primary applicant. That means CLB 7 for higher skilled professions and CLB 5 for lower skilled professions.
Why Canada Is Changing its Open Work Permit POLICIES
The primary reason is to curb the immigration fraud as language test results helps IRCC to eliminate the fraudulent SOWP applications bases on marriage of convenience, more over the newcomers with good language proficiency are more likely to succeed in Canada.
Not only this, skilled and communicate workers contributes more effectively to productivity.
Conclusion
This is a still draft regulation which was published in the Canada Gazette Part I for public feedback in spring of 2025. We can expect final regulations in 2026-2027 with final regulations published in Canada Gazette Part II, followed by official enforcement.