Citizenship Language Requirement in Canada

Applicants for Canadian citizenship, aged 18 to 54, are required to demonstrate their knowledge of one of Canada's official languages at the time of their application submission. The language requirements are defined in the regulations as the ability to:

1. Engage in short, everyday conversations.
2. Understand simple instructions and questions.
3. Use basic grammar, simple structures, and tenses in spoken communication.
4. Employ vocabulary suitable for routine oral communication.

Applicants must possess English or French speaking and listening skills that meet these language requirements. Proficiency in written language is not necessary. Evidence of language proficiency can be provided through various means, including:

1. Results of a third-party language test approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), demonstrating a CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) or NCLC (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens) level of 4 or higher in listening and speaking.
2. Diplomas or transcripts showing secondary or post-secondary education completed in English or French, either in Canada or abroad.
3. Results from a government-funded language course indicating a CLB or NCLC level of 4 or higher.
4. Language test results used during the application for permanent residence, even if they have since expired, can be used as evidence of proficiency.

The language tests currently approved by IRCC for citizenship application purposes include:

- International English Language Testing arrangement (IELTS)
- Canadian English Language-Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP General and LS)
- Test d'évaluation de français pour l'accès au Québec (TEF) or TEFAQ (Test d'évaluation de français adapté au Québec) for French language proficiency

Meeting the citizenship language requirement is an essential step in the naturalization process for those seeking Canadian citizenship. Applicants should ensure they fulfill this requirement based on their language proficiency and provide appropriate evidence to support their application.