From January 8, 2026, migrants applying for certain UK visas, including skilled worker, scale-up, and high potential individual (HPI) visas, will need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to an A-Level standard (B2 level). This new requirement marks a significant increase from the current B1 standard, which is roughly aligned with GCSE level, and aims to ensure better integration into UK society and improved contributions to the economy.
Applicants must pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) administered by a Home Office-approved provider, with test results verified during the visa application process. This test covers proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The government’s announcement reflects part of a broader tightening of immigration policy, which includes extending the residency period before settlement and citizenship from five to ten years for most migrants, though provisions for fast-tracking highly skilled workers remain in place.
The raised language threshold has sparked debate, especially since many native British English speakers find the proposed test challenging. A notable example comes from language educator Sophia Galer, who created a practice quiz featuring A-Level standard English questions based on the new requirements. Shared on TikTok, the quiz revealed that even some British citizens with strong academic backgrounds, including those holding degrees and A-Level qualifications, struggled to achieve a perfect score. Critics argue this raises questions about the fairness and practicality of imposing such a high English proficiency standard on migrants when it proves difficult for some native speakers.
The test includes nuanced questions on grammar and language use, such as distinguishing verb tenses, understanding phrasal verbs, and applying rules for countable versus uncountable nouns. For instance, test-takers must differentiate between “fewer” and “less,” understand the use of hyphens in compound adjectives like “reform-driven,” and identify the present continuous tense. Sophia Galer highlighted that these subtleties are expected of B2-level speakers and are crucial for fluent English communication.
Employers in sectors such as care and manufacturing, which typically recruit workers at English proficiency levels closer to B1, express concern that the uplift to B2 may create additional recruitment difficulties. The government, however, maintains that higher language skills are necessary to support migrant integration and ensure they can fully participate in workplace and social environments.
The scale-up visa targets workers employed by fast-growing companies, while the HPI visa is aimed at individuals who have obtained qualifications from top global universities within the last five years. Skilled worker visa applicants must be employed by government-approved employers earning at least £41,700 per year or the going rate for their occupation, whichever is higher.
Overall, the new English language requirement reflects the broader UK government agenda under Prime Minister Keir Starmer to reduce net migration and enhance integration standards. However, the raising of the English proficiency bar has met with criticism, particularly given the apparent difficulty posed to native speakers, prompting further discussions on the policy’s practical implications.
📌 Reference Map:
- [1] (Examiner Live) - Paragraphs 1, 3, 4, 5, 7
- [2] (gov.uk) - Paragraphs 1, 2, 6
- [3] (upday.com) - Paragraph 1
- [4] (Reuters) - Paragraph 2, 6
- [5] (axis.lawyer) - Paragraph 1, 2
- [6] (davidsonmorris.com) - Paragraph 1, 2
Source: Noah Wire Services