With everything happening so quickly these days, it’s crucial to stay abreast of migration news and IELTS developments. Below we highlight news about changes to IELTS Test Results Forms as well as changes to score requirements in Canada and the UK.
IELTS Announced Updates to its Test Result Form
There have been updates to the IELTS Test Report Forms (TRFs) for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The goal of these changes, which took effect on August 30, 2024, is to make it easier for immigration officials to understand and process applicants’ scores by streamlining the information presentation.
The addition of a QR code to the TRF is a noteworthy improvement since it enables the candidate’s findings to be instantly verified. To lessen the possibility of document fraud, immigration officials can scan the QR code to get the original IELTS test results. The new TRFs also have enhanced security features that make it impossible to forge or alter the document in any way, including the use of holograms and tamper-proof seals.
With the new TRF, you can see exactly which tests are acceptable for submission to UKVI, and it also shows that the IELTS Online test is available for some visa categories.
The official IELTS website has further information, which you may see here.
The Latest on International Migration
Canada Reduces Immigration Ceilings
The number of study permits awarded each year in Canada will be reduced by another 10%. The unsustainable demand from overseas students and the need for a more equitable immigration system are driving these reforms.
Canadian Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) Language Requirement Revised
Beginning November 2024, new higher band IELTS scores will be required for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada. These changes aim to ensure better integration of international graduates into the workforce. Candidates applying for a PGWP are encouraged to meet these new benchmarks early to avoid delays.
UK Raised Language Standards for Skilled Worker Visas
The UK has increased the minimum IELTS score for some categories of the Skilled Worker Visa in response to changes in the labour market. A minimum band score of 7.0 is now required for many technical and healthcare jobs, up from 6.5 previously. The goal of this change is to entice highly qualified individuals who are also fluent in English.
Further Reading
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See you in October!