CIC Accepts Ontario Language Training Certificates As Proof Of Language Ability For Citizenship

31 Jan 2014

Individuals applying for a Canadian Citizenship need to submit proof of English Language Ability. The proof is usually the result of English language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, etc. However, Chris Alexander, the Citizenship and Immigration Minister of Canada announced that starting 30^th January, 2014, CIC (Citizenship and Immigration Canada) will accept certificates from people who finished the provincial language training program of Ontario as proof of language ability. The Ontario language training program certificates will be accepted as proof of language only for people who are applying for Canadian Citizenship.

For the applicants from Ontario, the acceptance of this language training program will expedite their access to Canadian Citizenship. Generally, applicants for citizenship need to provide proof of language ability from the acceptable evidence list of CIC. This list includes government-funded language training programs certificates, academic certificates and results from third party tests. Now, the provincial Adult Non-Credit Language Training Program of Ontario will be accepted as proof that the applicants for Canadian Citizenship fulfill the requirements of language ability.

Quick facts:

Since the Canadian Citizenship Act of 1947, in order to establish their eligibility for Canadian Citizenship, adult applicants have had to illustrate an adequate knowledge of French or English.

The ability to speak French or English is a critical determinant in how well a newcomer will find employment, succeed and integrate into his/her community.

The nationally recognized benchmarks to assess a person’s proficiency in English / French are CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks) / NCLC (Niveau de compétence linguistique canadiens) respectively.

In listening and speaking skills, the level of CLB 4 is necessary.