The English Language Requirement for UK Visas

When making certain UK visa applications, applicants must be able to demonstrate a certain level of English language ability. The level  required  (referred to as CEFR - Common European Framework) is dependent on the type of visa or settlement application being made. Currently these are set as follows:

For the following routes, the level is assessed for reading, writing, speaking and listening abilities:

- Innovator visa - CEFR Level B1
- Start-up visa - CEFR Level B1
- Skilled Worker visa - CEFR Level B1

- Minister of Religion visa - CEFR Level B2

- Student visa - CEFR Level B1

For the following application routes, For the following routes, the level is assessed for speaking and listening abilities:

- Sportsperson visa - CEFR Level A1
- Family (Spouse/Partner, Child or Parent) of a settled person visa - CEFR Level A1
- Further leave to remain, for partners and parents on the family route after 2.5 years in the UK - CEFR Level A1/A2* (*Subject to existing Immigration Status)
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (to settle) or Citizenship - CEFR Level B1

Academic Qualifications

Where the applicant has a recognised degree / academic qualification that was taught or researched in English, they can automatically meet the requirement. Note that the qualification must have been in a country where the majority language is English, else it must be recognised by Ecctis (Formerly known as UK NARIC).

Citizens of the following Countries who do not need to evidence knowledge of English (as it is deemed their primary language)

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Australia
• the Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belize
• Canada
• Dominica
• Grenada
• Guyana
• Jamaica
• New Zealand
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Lucia
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• USA

Taking an English Language Test to meet the Requirement

Applicants can take a test approved by the Home Office with a Secure English Language Testing (SELT) provider. Presently, the providers and their respective tests that are accepted as SELT are:

If you are outside of the UK:

• PSI Services (UK) Ltd
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• LanguageCert
• Pearson

If you are in the UK:

• Trinity College London
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• LanguageCert
• Pearson

For an up to date list of approved tests and international test centres, please visit here.

The test and which level of the test you need to take and pass is dependent on the Visa application you are making, corresponding to the CEFR level required (as previously listed above). The different tests for each provider assess either speaking and listening, or reading, writing, speaking and listening.

When are you not required to meet the Requirement?

UK Visas that currently do not have the English Language Requirement:

• Visitor Visa
• PBS Dependant Visa

Age and Conditions that are exempt from meeting the Requirement:
 

• Any applicant under the age of 18
• Any applicant over the age of 65
• The applicant has a physical/mental condition that prevents them from meeting this requirement