Canada has two official languages: English and French. English is the most commonly spoken language in most provinces and territories.
French is the main language spoken in Quebec and in some areas of Ontario, New Brunswick and Manitoba. There are also francophone communities in all provinces and territories across Canada. Quebec has a large minority of residents who speak English.
The importance of language skills
English or French language skills are very important to help you settle in Canada. You may choose to focus on learning or improving one or the other. This will likely depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you live.
Strong English or French skills will help with:
- getting a job
- going to school
- accessing services
- helping your children with school work
- meeting and talking to people
- getting your Canadian citizenship
Take steps to improve your French or English while you are still in your home country and as soon as you arrive in Canada.
If you already speak an official language, think about learning the other. In many parts of Canada, being able to speak both is an advantage for finding a job and taking part in your community.
Language skills for work
The English or French skills you needed to be eligible to immigrate may not be strong enough for you to work in your field.
Most regulated jobs and trades require you to:
- be fluent in English or French
- have a strong knowledge of all work-related language
- understand phrases or expressions used, some of which may be unique to Canada
Find out about the language requirements you must meet to work in your field. If needed, contact your regulatory body to learn about the type of language test that will be used to evaluate or assess you.
You may want to consider taking language classes or looking for bridging programs that offer both language training and work experience.
Language tests and certificates
There are cases where you may need to prove your ability in either English or French, such as:
- when you apply for a job
- to get into a university or college
There are several language tests that are widely accepted. They will give you a certificate and test results that you can use for many purposes.
English language tests and certificates:
- IELTS
- CELPIL
- TOEFL
French language tests and certificates:
- TEF
- DELF
When you are applying for Canadian citizenship, you must prove that you know enough of either French or English so that you can understand other people and they can understand you. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will return your citizenship application as incomplete if you do not send acceptable proof that you have adequate knowledge of English or French.
For more details, contact First Notch Immigration: +91-9319574401
Visit Our Website: http://www.firstnotchimmigration.com
