Duolingo, the American edtech firm renowned for its online language courses, has encountered a setback in its efforts to gain recognition as an official language test provider for Canadian immigration applications. Despite intensive lobbying with Ottawa, the company was unable to secure approval for its digital English language test to be included in the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) programme, a pathway designed to assist skilled international refugees in obtaining permanent residency. This decision is poised to have significant implications for prospective migrants from conflict-affected regions who struggle to access traditional testing facilities.
Duolingo’s Lobbying Efforts and the IRCC’s Stance
Records from federal lobbying indicate that Duolingo representatives engaged with officials from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on five occasions between August and December 2025. The discussions centred on potential enhancements to the EMPP programme, particularly the integration of online language testing options. However, concerns regarding the integrity of Duolingo’s digital assessments, especially in verifying the identity of test-takers, ultimately influenced the IRCC’s decision to reject the proposal.
At present, the regulations governing language tests under IRCC mandate that applicants complete assessments in person at designated centres worldwide. Currently, only three English tests and two French tests are sanctioned, which notably includes the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The absence of remote testing options predominantly disadvantages applicants from war-torn regions, leaving them stranded in their immigration pursuits.
The Impact on Aspiring Immigrants
Among those affected is Hamdan Albuhaisi, a Palestinian citizen based in the Gaza Strip. His hopes of participating in the EMPP programme have been stymied by the IRCC’s in-person testing requirement. Albuhaisi’s case, now the subject of a judicial review in federal court, highlights the profound challenges faced by potential migrants. With a master’s degree in computing systems from Al-Azhar University and a decade of service with the United Nations, Albuhaisi has demonstrated his proficiency in English through the Duolingo English Test (DET). However, his application was ultimately rejected because the IRCC does not acknowledge the DET as a valid assessment.
Before the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023, Gaza hosted two IELTS testing centres operated by the British Council. Following their closure, the only remaining option for residents is an online IELTS test, which IRCC does not accept. Albuhaisi’s legal representative, Kelly O’Connor, has described the IRCC’s decision as “unreasonable,” arguing that it fails to take into account the hazardous conditions under which Albuhaisi and his family are living.
Calls for Change and Humanitarian Considerations
Albuhaisi’s situation is emblematic of a broader issue facing many applicants who are unable to undertake in-person language assessments due to extraordinary circumstances. O’Connor has urged the Canadian government to reconsider the acceptance of the Duolingo English Test on humanitarian grounds, particularly in cases where applicants meet all other criteria but lack access to approved testing facilities.
In response to inquiries, an IRCC spokesperson acknowledged the difficulties some applicants face in securing language tests. However, they reiterated that proof of language proficiency remains a critical requirement for those seeking to enter economic programmes.
Why it Matters
The refusal to accept Duolingo’s digital language test highlights a growing divide within Canada’s immigration framework, particularly for individuals from conflict-torn regions like Gaza. As traditional testing centres become increasingly inaccessible, the need for flexible, remote options is more urgent than ever. The decision raises fundamental questions about how Canada balances its immigration goals with the humanitarian imperatives that necessitate a more inclusive approach. While the government’s commitment to language proficiency is clear, it must also reflect an understanding of the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations seeking refuge and a new beginning in Canada.
