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Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Check you can apply

CitizenshipCheck you qualifyStep 3 of 7

BlockedAges 18 to 54 · CLB 4 · RequiredYou are here

3. Gather proof of your language

If you're 18 to 54 on the day you sign, you must show you can speak and understand English or French at level 4 of the Canadian Language Benchmarks.

Waiting on: Check you can apply

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This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

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Step 3 of 7 · RequiredClose

Gather proof of your language

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepLanguage proof accepted for citizenshipcanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

If you're 18 to 54 on the day you sign, you must show you can speak and understand English or French at level 4 of the Canadian Language Benchmarks. Three kinds of proof work: a language test result, schooling in English or French, or certain government language-training records.

Why it's required: The bar is lower than Express Entry's and only covers speaking and listening. The proof still has to be a document IRCC lists, not your own assessment of yourself.

Who it applies toAges 18 to 54Measured on the day you sign the application, not the day you send it.

LevelCLB / NCLC 4Speaking and listening only. Reading and writing are not tested.

Also assessedIn conversationAn officer can judge your ability while talking to you at any point.

Documents you'll need

A result from an IRCC-approved language test
Or a diploma or transcript from schooling in English or French
Or a certificate from a government-funded language course at CLB 4 or higher

Before this step

Not startedCheck you can apply

Finishing this unlocks: Submit your application and fee