Canada is set to implement changes that will affect applicants under the International Mobility Program (IMP).

Starting in 2026, individuals applying for certain Open Work Permits (OWP), including the Spousal Open Work Permit, will be required to demonstrate their English or French language proficiency.

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will require applicants for open work permits covered under the IMP to show proof from designated third-party organisations.

Applicants will need to provide test results from:

• IELTS or CELPIP for English 
• TEF Canada or TCF Canada for French

These tests, with results from within two years, will prove that they’re effective communicators in either English or French.

This proposed amendment will certainly affect Canadian businesses, particularly those that hire temporary workers, as the number of job seekers will decline.

But this new change will have a positive impact in the long term. It will help foreign nationals integrate into Canada smoothly and prevent dishonest schemes that exploit open work permits, such as sham marriages.

Additionally, this will support Canada’s need for foreign workers who speak English and French in in-demand sectors, like healthcare.

How does this affect the new applicants?

Foreign nationals who want to enter Canada under the IMP open work permits must start learning English or French as early as possible to prepare for the test.