The UK Home Office published the HC1333, Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules, in October 2025. As set out in this statement, the minimum English language requirement for new applicants across various UK immigration routes has been increased from 8 January 2026. 

Why are English Language requirements important?

Migrants are required to fulfil the English language proficiency requirement on most UK immigration routes. Their English language ability is assessed using the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), which measures proficiency from basic to advanced levels.

Sponsors/employers need to understand the English language requirement as it helps them ensure compliance with their sponsor's duties and also supports them in the successful recruitment of overseas talent. Education providers also need to know these requirements in order to assess the eligibility of foreign students to sponsor them for a course of study at their institution.

On the other hand, this is essential for migrants to fulfil the required English language level under the CEFR to avoid refusals and delays in their applications.

Understanding the CEFR levels

There are 4 components of proficiency in the English language. These 4 components include reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Some UK visas require applicants to prove their proficiency in only two components: speaking and listening abilities, while some visas require applicants to prove their ability in all four components: reading, writing, speaking, and listening in the English language. 

CEFR level A1 and A2 is achieved by passing in speaking and listening abilities.

CEFR level B1 and B2 are achieved by passing in reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities.

English Language CEFR Levels requirement by Visa Routes from 8 January 2026

The English language levels required for immigration applications depend on the visa category and whether the applicant is seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here.

1. UK Family Visa Applications

The applicant seeking entry clearance to the UK join their family member in the country must demonstrate their English language ability to at least CEFR level A1. 

On the other hand, the applicant making their first application to switch to the family route must meet CEFR level A1, and those applying to extend their permission to stay on this route must meet English language ability at CEFR level A2.

Family members of HM Armed Forces seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here must meet English language ability at CEFR level A1.

2. Student Visa Applications

The English language level for international students depends on the level of their studies. 

Students seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here must meet English language ability at CEFR level B1 if they are studying below UK bachelor's level.

Students seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here must meet English language ability at CEFR level B2 if they are studying at a UK bachelor's level or above. 

Approved sponsors/education providers are responsible for confirming that students meet the appropriate English requirement before sponsorship.

3. Skilled Worker and Business Routes

Work routes and business routes generally require the applicants to show a higher standard of English. 

From 8 January 2025, skilled workers and scale-up workers must meet English language ability at CEFR level B1 when seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here (except where their previous permission as a Skilled Worker or as a Scale-up worker was subject to a CEFR level B1 requirement).

High-potential individuals and Innovator founders must meet English language ability at CEFR level B2 when seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here.

4. Other specialist immigration Routes

Some specialist UK immigration routes, including T2 Minister of Religion, Representative of an Overseas Business, International Sportsperson, and International Agreement visa (Temporary Work), also have English language requirements as follows:

• Applicants seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here on the T2 Minister of Religion route must meet English language ability at CEFR level B2.

• Applicants seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here as a Representative of an Overseas Business must meet English language ability at CEFR level A1.

• Applicants seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here as an International Sportsperson for more than 12 months must meet English language ability at CEFR level A1.

• Applicants seeking entry clearance to the UK or permission to stay here on the International Agreement visa (Temporary Work) route must meet English language ability at CEFR level B1.

How Applicants Can Prove Their English Ability?

Applicants may be required to pass an SELT (Secure English Language Test) to prove their knowledge of English at the required CEFR level. The applicant must take the test with an approved provider and at authorised test centres. In certain circumstances, applicants may be exempt from sitting for a SELT or allowed to rely on alternative evidence, depending on their nationality, qualifications, or previous immigration status.

What education providers and employers should do?

Education providers and employers in the UK with valid sponsor licences should check the updated English language requirements at an early stage in their course-enrolment and recruitment process. Those looking to sponsor students and workers must ensure visa candidates book only an approved English language test and meet the required CEFR level for the English language specific to their visa route. Those who fail to fulfil the English language requirement may have to face refused visa applications, delayed start dates (job or course), and potential compliance issues. 

Key point to remember

On 8 January 2026, the Home Office published its updated Guidance on the English language requirement levels for immigration applications, which highlights the latest CEFR levels (effective from 8 January 2026) required for various UK visa routes. Importantly, employers, education providers, sponsors, and migrants should review the latest English language requirements carefully and prepare evidence well in advance to avoid disruption.