Working in Canada with an IELTS certificate – A practical guide
Date of last update: 30.07.2025
When planning a career in Canada, one of the first and most important steps is obtaining an IELTS certificate. This exam officially confirms your English proficiency – a key skill needed to work, study, and fully integrate into Canadian society.
In this guide, we explain why IELTS plays such a crucial role in the immigration process and how to effectively prepare to land a job in Canada with its help.
Table of contents:
- Why is IELTS important when applying for job in Canada?
- IELTS General Training and Canadian Language Benchmark – Conversion Table
- Step-by-step: How to get a job in Canada with IELTS
- Where and how to prepare for IELTS?
- Summary
You can read this article in 4 minutes.
Why is IELTS important when applying for job in Canada?
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the most widely recognized language tests accepted by the Canadian government and employers across the country. Whether you’re applying for a work visa or permanent residency, you’ll likely need to present your IELTS results.
There are two main types of IELTS exams:
- IELTS General Training – required for most immigration and employment processes
- IELTS Academic – mainly needed for admission to universities and colleges
IELTS scores are converted into the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB), the official scale used to assess language proficiency in Canada’s immigration programs. The minimum required CLB level depends on the program – for example, the Federal Skilled Worker Program requires at least CLB 7, which corresponds to a score of 6.0 in each IELTS section.
IELTS General Training and Canadian Language Benchmark – Conversion Table
| CLB level | IELTS General Training Reading | IELTS General Training Writing | IELTS General Training Listening | IELTS General Training Speaking |
| 10 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 7.5 |
| 9 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 7.0 |
| 8 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
| 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| 6 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 5 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| 4 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 |
Source: Language test equivalency charts, Government of Canada
Step-by-step: How to get a job in Canada with IELTS
1. Prepare for IELTS and achieve the required score
Start by choosing the correct test version – for most job and immigration purposes, you’ll need IELTS General Training. Aim for a minimum score of 6.0 in each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking), although some programs may require higher results.
Tip: Use online resources, preparation courses, or hire a tutor. A structured study plan significantly boosts your chances of success.
2. Choose the right immigration program for your situation
Canada offers various immigration pathways, including:
- Express Entry – (e.g. Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – run by individual provinces
- Atlantic Immigration Program – for those planning to settle in Eastern Canada (e.g. New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, or Prince Edward Island)
Each pathway has its own language and work-related requirements. It’s essential to compare them and choose the one that best fits your profile.
3. Get a job offer or credential recognition
While not all immigration streams require a job offer, having one can significantly strengthen your application. Alternatively, you may need to get your professional credentials recognized, especially in regulated professions such as engineering, healthcare, or skilled trades.
4. Apply for a work permit or permanent residency
Once you meet the language and professional criteria, you can proceed with your visa or PR application. Your IELTS results will be one of the documents evaluated by immigration officers.
5. Prepare for life and work in Canada
After arrival, continue improving your English, learning about Canadian culture, and expanding your professional skills. The IELTS certificate not only helps you immigrate but also supports your day-to-day life and integration into the Canadian workforce and society.
Where and how to prepare for IELTS?
You can prepare for the test in several ways:
- Self-study using textbooks, online tests, and mobile apps
- IELTS preparation courses, with the guidance of experienced instructors
- Practice tests, which help you get familiar with the exam format and assess your current level
Summary
A strong IELTS score can play a decisive role in your immigration success, improve your job prospects, and ease your transition to living and working in Canada. Don’t wait – start preparing now and take a key step toward your Canadian career dream.
