In a significant setback for American edtech firm Duolingo, efforts to secure approval as an official language test provider for Canadian immigration have been unsuccessful. Despite multiple lobbying attempts to have its online English language test recognised by the federal immigration department, Duolingo’s ambitions were thwarted. This decision has profound implications for prospective migrants, particularly those from conflict-affected regions, who face barriers in demonstrating their language proficiency.
Duolingo’s Lobbying Efforts
Records reveal that Duolingo’s representatives engaged with officials from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on five occasions from August to December 2025. Their discussions focused on potential enhancements to the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) programme, which aims to facilitate permanent residency for high-skilled international refugees. Central to Duolingo’s pitch was the innovative digital language testing model they offer, which could have eased the process for many applicants who lack physical access to testing facilities.
Currently, IRCC mandates that language tests be conducted in person at designated centres, with three English tests and two French tests accepted—most notably the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Duolingo’s push for acceptance of its online test was met with scepticism, particularly concerning the integrity of the test format and the ability to verify the identity of the test-taker. Sources familiar with the matter indicated that government officials expressed reservations about ensuring that the individual taking the test was indeed the applicant.
The Impact of Current Immigration Rules
The strict requirements for in-person testing have serious repercussions for applicants like Hamdan Albuhaisi, a Palestinian residing in Gaza. Albuhaisi’s application for the EMPP was rejected due to the inability to present an IRCC-approved English language test, a situation exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and the closure of testing centres in Gaza.
Before the escalation of violence in October 2023, there were two IELTS centres in Gaza operated by the British Council. Following their closure, residents have been left with limited options, including an online IELTS test that remains unrecognised by IRCC. Albuhaisi, who has a master’s degree in computing systems and extensive experience working with the United Nations, turned to the Duolingo English Test. His results far exceeded the minimum requirements set by IRCC, yet this was not sufficient for his application.
Legal Challenges and Humanitarian Considerations
The situation has prompted legal action, with Albuhaisi challenging IRCC’s decision in federal court. He has also appealed directly, citing humanitarian and compassionate grounds. His lawyer, Kelly O’Connor, has argued that the IRCC’s stance is unreasonable given the perilous conditions in which Albuhaisi and his family find themselves. Tragically, in March 2024, 11 of Albuhaisi’s family members, including his eight-year-old daughter, were killed in an airstrike, highlighting the urgent need for a more flexible approach to language testing for applicants in extraordinary circumstances.
O’Connor has called for a reconsideration of Duolingo’s English Test under compassionate grounds, particularly for those who meet all other criteria for permanent residency but face insurmountable obstacles in taking an in-person language test. While an IRCC spokesperson recognised the challenges some applicants face in accessing language tests, they reiterated that proof of language proficiency remains a critical requirement for economic immigration programmes.
Why it Matters
The refusal to accept online language testing has significant repercussions for Canada’s immigration landscape, particularly for displaced individuals seeking refuge and opportunity. As Ottawa grapples with how best to support skilled refugees, the limitations imposed by the current language testing framework raise important questions about accessibility and fairness. By not adapting to the realities faced by applicants like Albuhaisi, the system risks alienating those in dire need of support and undermining Canada’s commitment to humanitarian principles. In an era where digital solutions can bridge gaps, the refusal to embrace innovative testing methods could hinder the country’s objectives in attracting skilled immigrants who could contribute to its economy and society.
