Canada’s Express Entry program and permanent residence application process have rules set by the government. But, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) understands that some people with disabilities might struggle to meet these rules.

The Canadian government says that people applying for these programs must show they’re good in at least one language skill: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. But, if someone has a disability that makes it tough to test all language skills, they might not need to show scores for all skills. Instead, they can give average scores for the skills they can be tested in.

If someone can’t take the full language test because of a disability, they might still be able to apply. However, not all language tests offer this option. For example, Pearson Canada Inc. (PTE Core) and Test de connaissance du français pour le Canada (TCF Canada) don’t give exemptions.

To get an exemption, people must give medical proof to the language test organization. Then, they might get extra help during the test, like more time or special tools.

When applying, immigrants are told to use the government’s language tool to get their average scores. But if someone took the IELTS test, they’ll get an average score directly from IELTS.

If someone with a disability is invited to apply for permanent residence, they can use their average language scores. But their application might get extra checking because of this.

Immigration officers can use the government’s tool to check if the scores are correct.

This new policy makes it easier for immigrants with disabilities to apply for Canada’s Express Entry program and permanent residence. It ensures that disabilities don’t hold back talented individuals from becoming part of Canada’s diverse society.