Language requirements – Federal skilled workers

In support of transparency efforts, this section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by CIC staff as a courtesy to stakeholders.

Knowledge of official languages

For federal skilled workers a maximum of 24 points should be awarded for proficiency in English and French [R79] as follows:

  • a maximum of 16 points for proficiency in the “first” official language (identified by the principal applicant on the application form);
  • a maximum of 8 points for proficiency in the “second” official language.

Calculating language points:

First official language
Proficiency level Reading Writing Listening Speaking
High proficiency 4 4 4 4
Moderate proficiency 2 2 2 2
Basic proficiency
*to a maximum of 2 points		 1 1 1 1
No proficiency 0 0 0 0
Second official language
Proficiency level Reading Writing Listening Speaking
High proficiency 2 2 2 2
Moderate proficiency 2 2 2 2
Basic proficiency
*to a maximum of 2 points		 1 1 1 1
No proficiency 0 0 0 0

Evidence of language proficiency

For more information, see: