A New English Test for Permanent Residence Applications – TOEFL Essentials to Be Added
Date Posted:August 22, 2025
Last Updated:September 24, 2026
Proving English proficiency is an unavoidable requirement when applying for permanent residence in Canada.
Applicants currently take CELPIP, IELTS or PTE Core, but a new option is expected to be added: TOEFL Essentials.
The version being recognized is not the familiar TOEFL iBT used for university admissions, but a test developed to measure practical English proficiency in a shorter time.
What is TOEFL Essentials?
TOEFL Essentials is a test that measures the four core skills—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—in a balanced way. Its key feature is that it assesses not only academic English but also English for everyday and workplace situations.
- Test length: About 1.5 hours (shorter than TOEFL iBT)
- Sections:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
- Personal Video Statement (optional self-introduction video, not scored)
- Score release: Preliminary scores for Listening and Reading are available immediately after the test. Official scores are issued within 6 days and can be sent to unlimited institutions at no extra cost.
Thanks to its shorter duration and focus on real-life tasks, many may find it more accessible than traditional English tests.
Which Immigration Programs Will Accept It?
TOEFL Essentials is expected to be accepted in the following programs:
- Express Entry
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
- Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Each PNP has its own rules, so whether TOEFL Essentials will be accepted is ultimately up to the individual provinces.
Important Note – Not Yet Available
It is important to note that TOEFL Essentials has not yet officially been accepted. Currently, ETS (the organization behind TOEFL) and IRCC are coordinating the rollout, and details on when it will start and where it will be available are yet to be announced.
If you are planning to apply soon, do not rush to take the test—wait for official announcements from IRCC or ETS before making arrangements.
Summary
The addition of TOEFL Essentials to Canada’s permanent residence application process is good news. With more test options, candidates can better choose the method that suits them.
However, since it is not yet in effect, staying updated with the latest information is essential.
At Shiraishi Visa JP Canada, we provide the latest immigration news and practical advice for applications. We also offer consultation on test selection and application strategies, so please feel free to contact us.
Message from Shiraishi, President of Shiraishi Visa JP Canada
“The inclusion of TOEFL Essentials will be a great boost for those applying for permanent residence from abroad. With more options, applicants can choose the test that best fits them. Let’s understand these policy changes correctly and move forward with a realistic and well-prepared application process.”
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Immigration Consultant
Yuki Shiraishi
Born in Japan. After earning a Bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan, she worked for six years in New York as a marketing consultant at a major travel agency, while also studying in an MBA program at the City University of New York. After returning to Japan, she managed the visa center of the same travel company, handling various international visa applications for foreign clients.
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