If you’re planning to move to the UK for work, study, or to join family — there’s an important change you need to know.
From 8 January 2026, the UK Government will introduce stricter English language rules for visa applicants. These changes will affect who can qualify for work visas, how dependants apply, and what’s required for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
🔹 1. English Level Raised from B1 to B2
From 8 January 2026, anyone applying for a Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual (HPI), or Scale-up visa must now demonstrate B2-level English proficiency — equivalent to A-Level standard.
Until now, a B1 level (roughly GCSE standard) was sufficient. However, from 8 January 2026, this will increase to B2 level (equivalent to A-Level English) in all four skills — speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
The new rule means applicants must show they can:
- Understand complex discussions and detailed texts.
- Communicate fluently and spontaneously in professional and social settings.
- Write and speak clearly and effectively in English.
You’ll need to prove your English ability through one of the following:
✅ A Secure English Language Test (SELT) from a Home Office–approved provider.
✅ A degree taught in English (verified through Ecctis, formerly UK NARIC).
✅ Being a citizen of a majority English-speaking country (for certain routes).
Tip: If you’re planning to apply after January 2026, start preparing early — B2 requires a higher level of fluency and confidence than B1.
🔹 2. New English Requirements for Dependants
Under the new HC 997 immigration changes, dependants of visa holders (such as partners and family members) will also be required to meet minimum English language standards for the first time.
Under the HC 997 rule changes, the levels are as follows:
| Stage | Required Level | Description |
| First entry to the UK | A1 | Basic English – simple phrases and everyday communication |
| Visa extension | A2 | Pre-intermediate – able to hold short conversations |
| Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | B2 | A-Level English – fluent communication across most topics |
This gradual increase is designed to encourage dependants to develop their English skills as they settle and integrate into UK society.
🔹 3. Stricter Rules for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
If you’re applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — permanent residence in the UK — there are additional changes under HC 1333.
- Applicants must meet the English language requirement under Appendix KoLL (Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK).
- If a partner or parent cannot meet the requirement, they may still be granted limited leave to remain (30 months) — but will have no access to public funds.
In other words, demonstrating English language competence is now essential for long-term settlement in the UK.
🔹 4. Why These Changes Matter
According to the Home Office, the new English language standards are being introduced to:
- Help migrants integrate and participate fully in UK life.
- Ensure workers can communicate effectively in diverse workplaces.
- Improve social cohesion and public confidence in the immigration system.
At the same time, experts — including Dr. Madeleine Sumption from Oxford University’s Migration Observatory — warn that the new standards could make it harder for employers to recruit in sectors like construction, health, and care work, where language proficiency hasn’t always been a barrier to performance.
The government estimates these changes could reduce annual immigration by around 6,000 people, as fewer applicants may meet the new threshold.
🔹 5. How to Prepare for the 2026 English Language Requirement
Here are some practical steps you can take now:
✅ Check your current English level – If you’re at B1 or below, consider enrolling in an English course that focuses on professional communication.
✅ Book your test early – Approved providers include IELTS for UKVI, LanguageCert, Pearson PTE Academic UKVI, and Trinity College London.
✅ Gather evidence – If your degree or qualification was taught in English, make sure you can prove it (via Ecctis).
✅ Understand timing – If you plan to apply before 8 January 2026, the current B1 rule still applies. After that date, only B2 will be accepted.
✅ Help your family prepare – Dependants should start learning basic English (A1 level) well before applying.
🔹 5. What Employers Should Do Now
For Employers:
- Review your recruitment and sponsorship processes.
- Confirm candidates can meet B2 English before starting sponsorship paperwork.
- Consider providing language support or preparation resources to future recruits.
💬 Final Thoughts
The UK’s move from B1 to B2 English level represents both a cultural and practical shift — aligning immigration policy with integration and communication goals.
From 8 January 2026, the higher B2 (A-Level) English standard will apply to new applicants under the Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual (HPI), and Scale-up visa routes.
Further English language requirements for dependants and Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) applicants are expected later in 2026, though dates are yet to be confirmed.
For migrants, this is a signal to prepare early and aim higher in English proficiency. For employers, it’s a prompt to adapt recruitment and support processes as the UK raises its language standards for integration and success.