What should I do if an immigration authority has claimed my passport?
When you register for an IELTS test using your passport, you declare that you have the physical passport with you and will bring it on the day of your test. Do not register for a test if you do not have an approved ID document.
If you do not bring your pre-verified ID document to your test, there is no guarantee of a refund or transfer.
An immigration authority has asked for my passport. Can I still take my test?
If an immigration authority such as IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) asks for your passport to complete an application, email [email protected] immediately and within 2 days to inform us that you won't have your passport with you on test day.
You must provide a copy of the passport request letter from the immigration authority. The letter must be dated within the last 2 days. You can scan or take a clear photo of this letter.
- If your situation is urgent: In some situations, you may be granted special permission to use an alternative ID document. This is not guaranteed and you may be asked to prove that your situation is urgent.
- If your situation is not urgent: You may be offered a transfer to a later test date at the same location. A refund and cancellation will not be granted. An $80 transfer fee will apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
IELTS approved my request to use an alternative ID document, but I would rather transfer my test. Can I do that?
No. If we have approved another ID document for your original test date, you must attend your test or book a new one (and pay again).
When I booked my test, I had already submitted my passport to an immigration authority. Can I change or cancel my booking?
No. When you register for an IELTS test using your passport, you declare that you have the physical passport with you and will bring it on the day of your test. You must book and repay for a new test.
An immigration authority requested my passport 3 or more days ago but I didn't tell you. Can I still delay my test?
No. You must report your situation to us and provide your passport request letter no later than 2 days after you get it, or book and repay for a new test.
I have a certified copy of my passport. Can I use that for the test?
No, IELTS only accepts the physical passport on test day.
What happens if I show up on test day without a pre-approved ID document?
If you don't communicate with us in advance or tell us within 2 days of receiving your passport request letter, you won't be allowed to take the test. No refund or transfer will be offered. You may book and repay for a new test.