What CLB level do most Canadian immigration programs require?

CLB 7 is the most common requirement, corresponding to a TCF score of roughly 200-239 and letting you handle most immigration programs with solid proficiency.

What French test does France require for a visa?

France typically requires DELF A2 for most visa programs, including student, work, and spouse/family visas. Permanent residence usually requires B1-B2, tested via TCF, DELF B1, or DALF C1.

Which test should I take for Canada versus France?

For Canada's Express Entry, take TCF or TEF — TCF is the most common choice because it is cheaper and easier to book. For France, Belgium, or Switzerland, DELF is the standard choice since it has lifetime validity.

How long are TCF and TEF scores valid, versus DELF?

TCF and TEF scores are valid for 2 years, while DELF is valid for a lifetime — an important factor if your visa application timeline is uncertain.

French Immigration Language Requirements: CLB, NCLC, TCF, DELF Explained

Why Language Requirements Exist

Immigration authorities require language proficiency to ensure newcomers can work, study, and integrate. Different countries have different requirements based on immigration programs.

Canadian Language Requirements (Express Entry)

The Canadian CLB Scale (Canadian Language Benchmarks)

Canada uses CLB (or NCLC for Quebec) to measure French proficiency. CLB 7 is the most common requirement for immigration.

CLB Level	CEFR	TCF Score	Can You...
CLB 5	A2	140-179	Handle basic conversations, travel
CLB 6	A2/B1	180-219	Work in basic roles, understand most meetings
CLB 7	B1	200-239	Most immigration programs (solid proficiency)
CLB 8	B2	240-279	Professional roles, advanced fluency
CLB 9	B2/C1	280-300	Native-like proficiency (very rare)

Which Test to Take?

For Canada (Express Entry): Take either TCF or TEF. Most common is TCF because it's cheaper and easier to find test dates.

France Language Requirements

France typically requires DELF A2 for most visa programs (spouse visa, student visa, work visa).

Visa Type	Required Level	Exam
Student Visa	A2 (DELF A2)	DELF A2
Work Visa (Most Jobs)	A2-B1	DELF A2 or TCF B1
Spouse/Family Visa	A2	DELF A2
Permanent Residence	B1-B2 (varies)	TCF, DELF B1, or DALF C1

Belgium & Switzerland

Both countries generally accept the same tests as France:

DELF A2 minimum for most visa programs
TCF B1 for skilled worker programs

Which Exam Should You Take?

Exam	Cost	Best For	Validity
TCF	$100-150	Canada Express Entry, Fast scoring	2 years
DELF	$100-150	France, Belgium, Switzerland visas	Lifetime
TEF	$120-150	Quebec/Canada (alternative to TCF)	2 years

Immigration Timeline

Start of your journey: Take a diagnostic test to know your current level

If A1/A2: 8-12 weeks of intensive study (reach A2/B1)

If B1: 6-8 weeks of exam-specific preparation

Test day: Take official exam

Results: 7-10 days (TCF), 2-3 weeks (DELF)

Application: Submit with your visa application

Bottom Line

Know your destination and program requirements. Most immigration paths require DELF A2 or TCF CLB 6/7. Study intensively for 8-12 weeks. Book your exam at least 6 months before your visa deadline.

Want to see where you stand? Plug your profile into our Express Entry CRS calculator.

For the full exam breakdown, see our TCF Canada exam guide.