English Language Test for UK Visas

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.

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.

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:

• citizenship
• International Sportsperson
• parent
• partner
• Representative of an Overseas Business
• settlement (also known as indefinite leave to remain)

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.