The English requirement for UK visas: levels and exemptions

Knowledge of English is a key condition for many UK immigration applications. The level depends on the stage: the further along the road to settlement and citizenship, the higher the bar. Levels are measured on the Europe-wide CEFR scale — from A1 (basic) to C2 (fluent).

What level is needed at each stage?

A first partner (spouse) visa needs at least A1. To extend after 2.5 years you need at least A2 in speaking and listening; if you passed A2 or higher from the start, you can reuse the result while it is valid. For settlement (indefinite leave) and then citizenship you need B1 or higher — a B1 result can be reused for settlement if the test remains on the approved list.

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How do you prove your English?

There are three main routes. First, pass an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) with a provider from the official list. Second, hold a degree taught in English: a UK degree is proven by the certificate itself, while a non-UK degree must be checked by Ecctis, which confirms both the level and that it was taught in English. Third, be a national of a country that is exempt.

Who is exempt from the test?

Several groups are exempt. On age and health — people aged 65 or over, and those who cannot take the test because of a long-term physical or mental condition (a doctor's form and medical reports are needed). On nationality — nationals of listed countries including Australia, Canada, the USA, New Zealand, Jamaica, Malta and others.

There are also specific settlement grounds: victims of domestic violence who are the partner of a British citizen or settled person; widows and widowers of such people; adult dependent relatives aged 18 to 64; refugees and those with humanitarian protection; and Commonwealth citizens discharged from the armed forces, including Gurkhas. Note that if you were exempt when granted settlement, you must submit the exemption form again when applying for citizenship.

How do you avoid a refusal?

The most common mistake is sending the wrong evidence. An application is refused if you attach a qualification of the wrong level, a test not on the approved list, or an expired certificate. So before you book, check on GOV.UK that the provider is on the official SELT list and the centre is accredited: the result of a merely 'similar' test will not count. Sit the test early, with time to spare, and keep the certificate and any exemption form — you may need them at the next stage. If you are unsure which level applies in your case, check the guidance for your visa category on GOV.UK.