Is IELTS Mandatory If I Hold a Canada Work Visa?

If you have a work visa (Temporary Work Permit) for Canada, then IELTS is not always compulsory — it depends on the type of job and the specific immigration or work program you’re applying under.

Here's a breakdown:

1. Temporary Work Permit (LMIA-based or Employer-Specific Work Permit):

• IELTS is usually not mandatory.

• What matters more is:

o Your job offer from a Canadian employer.

o A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (if required).

o Your qualifications and experience for the job.

However, if the visa officer wants proof of language ability (for example, if English is critical for the job), they might request a test, and IELTS can be used for that purpose.

2. Open Work Permit (e.g., Spouse of Student/Worker):

• No IELTS required to apply.

3. Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways via Work Experience (e.g., Express Entry):

If your goal is to stay and get PR in Canada later, then yes, IELTS or another approved language test is mandatory for:

• Express Entry (FSW, CEC, FST)

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

• Agri-Food Pilot, etc.

Summary:

Temporary Work Permit (LMIA-based)        Not usually

Employer-Specific Work Permit        Not mandatory

Open Work Permit (Spouse/PGWP)        No

Applying for PR (e.g., Express Entry)        Yes, IELTS or CELPIP needed