Skilled workers and professionals: Who can apply—Selection factors

Providing other written evidence

We strongly recommend that you take an official language test if you are claiming skills in a language that is not your native language.

If you choose not to take an approved language test, you must prove your ability to speak, listen, read and write Canada’s official languages through other written evidence. You must provide written proof and an explanation that clearly shows you meet the benchmark criteria listed in the Canadian Language Benchmarks in each of the four skills.

NOTE
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) officers will not conduct an interview to assess your language skills. CIC will only use test results from organizations approved by CIC in assigning language points.

You must:

1. Indicate what level of language proficiency you are claiming for each skill (speaking, listening, reading and writing).
2. Submit, with your application for immigration, a written explanation and supporting documentation as proof of the levels you have indicated.
   
   This material should include:
   • a written submission explaining your training in English or French;
   • an explanation of how you commonly use English or French;
   • official documentation of education in English or French; and
   • official documentation of work experience in English or French.

What happens next

A CIC officer will review the evidence you include with your application.

• Your submission must satisfy the officer that your language skills meet the benchmarks for the levels you are claiming.
• The officer will award points for your language ability based on what you send with your application.
• You will not know in advance how many points the CIC officer will give you for your language skills.