The English Language Requirement

The English language requirement for UK visas is a mandatory requirement for individuals who wish to come to the UK for work, study or to join their family members. This requirement is designed to ensure that individuals who come to the UK are able to communicate effectively in English and amalgamate into British society.

The UK government has set specific English language requirements for different types of visas, depending on the level of education and the purpose of the visit. The English language requirements for UK visas are divided into two categories: speaking and listening, and reading and writing. The requirements vary depending on the level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) that the applicant needs to achieve.

For most visas, applicants must demonstrate their English language proficiency by taking a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from a Home Office approved test provider. The SELT tests are designed to assess the applicants’ ability to communicate in English in real-life situations.

In addition to the SELT test, applicants may also be able to demonstrate their English language proficiency through other means, which we examine below.

Exemptions to English Language Tests

There are several exemptions to the requirement to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for the English language requirement on a UK visa application. These exemptions apply to certain categories of applicants who may not need to take a SELT test to demonstrate their English language proficiency.

  • Nationals of majority English-speaking countries: Applicants who are nationals of a majority English-speaking country, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or the United Kingdom, do not need to take a SELT test to demonstrate their English language proficiency.
  • Applicants who have a degree taught in English: Applicants who have completed a degree course that was taught in English may not need to take a SELT test. The degree must have been awarded by a UK university or a recognized institution in a majority English-speaking country.
  • Applicants who are from a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) exempt country: Nationals of certain countries are exempt from taking a SELT test if they are applying for a Tier 4 (Student) visa.
  • Applicants who have completed an English language course in the UK: Applicants who have completed an English language course at an accredited institution in the UK may not need to take a SELT test. The course must have been at least six months long, and the applicant must have completed it no more than two years before submitting their visa application.
  • Applicants who are aged under 18: Applicants who are under the age of 18 and are applying for a Tier 4 (Child) visa do not need to take a SELT test.

These exemptions may vary depending on the type of visa that the applicant is applying for, and the requirements do change from time to time.

Majority English-Speaking Countries

The UK government considers the following countries as majority English-speaking countries for the purposes of UK visa applications:

  1. Antigua and Barbuda
  2. Australia
  3. The Bahamas
  4. Barbados
  5. Belize
  6. Canada
  7. Dominica
  8. Grenada
  9. Guyana
  10. Jamaica
  11. New Zealand
  12. St Kitts and Nevis
  13. St Lucia
  14. St Vincent and the Grenadines
  15. Trinidad and Tobago
  16. United States of America (including Puerto Rico)

It’s important to note that this list is subject to change, and applicants should always check the latest guidance on the UK government website or consult with a qualified immigration adviser to ensure they meet the English language requirements for their specific visa application.

Approved Test Providers

Inside the UK

You can only take a SELT with one of the following providers:

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

Outside the UK

You can only take a SELT with one of the following providers:

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

Visa Applications that Require an English Language Test

There are two distinct English language proficiency tests that applicants may need to take, as different immigration routes have varying requirements for language skills. The specific test that an applicant will need to take will depend on the type of visa they are applying for.

If an applicant is applying for one of the following immigration routes, they will need to take a comprehensive test that evaluates their reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities:

  • Health and Care Worker
  • High Potential Individual
  • Innovator Founder
  • Minister of Religion
  • Scale-up Worker
  • Skilled Worker
  • Start-up
  • Student

For the following application routes, you will need to take a test that assesses your speaking and listening abilities:

The level of test you will need, known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level, will depend on the route you are applying for. Here are some of the most common types of visas and their corresponding English language requirements:

  • Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa: Applicants must demonstrate an English language proficiency level of at least CEFR level B1 in speaking and listening.
  • Tier 2 (General) visa: Applicants must demonstrate an English language proficiency level of at least CEFR level B1 in speaking and listening.
  • Tier 4 (Student) visa: Applicants must demonstrate an English language proficiency level of at least CEFR level B2 in reading, writing, speaking and listening.
  • Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme) visa: Applicants must demonstrate an English language proficiency level of at least CEFR level B1 in speaking and listening.
  • Spouse/partner visa: Applicants must demonstrate an English language proficiency level of at least CEFR level A1 in speaking and listening.

How Long is a SELT Test Valid for?

All SELT test results are valid for 2 years from the date the test is awarded.