Canada is adding a new option for proving English language skills for permanent residence. IRCC will soon accept the TOEFL Essentials test, joining IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE Core. The test measures listening, reading, writing, and speaking through practical, real-life tasks and takes about 1.5 hours.

It’s designed for candidates in Express Entry programs, the Federal Skilled Worker, Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class, Atlantic Immigration Program, and some Provincial Nominee Programs. Test takers get instant scores for listening and reading, with full results online within six days.

ETS, which administers TOEFL, will share test dates and locations once IRCC finalizes acceptance. This gives applicants more flexibility in meeting language requirements for Canadian immigration.