Higher Bar: Changes to the English Language Requirement for UK Work Visa Applicants

The English language requirement for certain UK Work Visas is will be raised from the current B1 level to B2 (upper intermediate) starting on January 8, 2026. This change will affect new applicants for the Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual, and Scale-up Visas.

The Home Office is implementing this enhanced requirement, outlined in the Explanatory memorandum to the statement of changes to the Immigration Rules: HC 1333, following the government’s May 2025 Immigration White Paper. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasised the importance of migrants learning the language to contribute to national life.

UK Immigration Solicitors quickly clarified that while the requirement remains, the only change is an increase in proficiency level. B2 proficiency requires the ability to speak confidently on everyday topics, participate in discussions, and understand normal-speed conversations on familiar subjects.

Who Will Be Affected?

The new B2 standard will apply to applications made on or after January 8, 2026, for the Skilled Worker Visa, High Potential Individual Visa, and Scale-up Visa, provided the applicant is not exempt.

Current visa holders of these routes will not need to sit a new, enhanced test to remain in the UK or extend their current visa.

Key Exemptions

An applicant may be exempt from taking a Secure English Language Test (SELT) if they:

• …previously passed an English language test to the required level for an earlier visa.
• …have a degree-level qualification taught or researched in English.
• …are a national of a majority English-speaking country listed in the Immigration Rules.

We advise UK employers to try and assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) as soon as possible to allow Work Visa applicants to apply before the January 8, 2026, deadline.

#Brexit #UKVisa #B2English #SkilledWorker #Continentsurfer

Want to know more?