The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, revealed a new immigration white paper on 12th May 2025. Among the many subjects covered in the paper were proposed changes to the English language requirement for UK visas.
The English language requirement for UK visas varies depending on the visa type. Generally, it involves demonstrating the ability to speak, read, write, and understand English to a specified level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
Applicants typically meet this requirement by passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT), holding a degree taught in English, or being a national of a majority English-speaking country. For example, Skilled Worker visas usually require CEFR level B1, Student visas require B1 or B2 depending on the course level, and family visas start at A1 for initial applications, increasing for extensions and settlement.
The ability for individuals to effectively communicate is essential for establishing social connections and building communities. Without adequate language skills, there is a risk of isolation as well as poor integration. Research shows that people with better English language skills are more likely to work, be economically active amd in full-time employment.
People who cannot speak English are less likely to be employed. In the 2021 Census, just under 70% of migrants who were proficient in English were either employed or self-employed, compared to 50% of those who could not speak English well or at all. In addition to having higher employment rates, migrants with good English language skills tend to work in jobs requiring a higher level of skills.
The UK currently requires a level of English proficiency for many migrants to come to the UK. However, this currently applies to the main applicant only, and no further test is applied to dependents arriving on many work and student routes.
Those who wish to build their lives in the UK need to learn to speak and understand English so they can integrate into life in the UK by getting a job or improving their prospects at work, accessing and making good use of local services, becoming part of community life and contributing to society.
To support this, UKVI will introduce new English language requirements across a broader range of immigration routes, for both main applicants and their dependants. This will ensure better knowledge of English, including an assessment of improvements over time.
The white paper proposes a series of changes to the English language requirement to support greater integration and social cohesion. These vary by visa type and category, but overall, they can be characterised as broadening the English language requirement to a greater number of visas and increasing the minimum acceptable level.
The main proposed changes are as follows:
No timescale has yet been provided for when these rules will be in place, nor whether they will be applied retrospectively. First Migration will release further updates as and when more information is available.
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If you want to apply for a UK visa, you can do so directly on the UKVI website.
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