The UK government is introducing new rules that raise the immigrants English language requirement for people who want to work in the country.
From January 2026, migrants applying for key visa routes will need to show an A-level standard of English, also known as B2 level English under the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
This is a major change from the previous B1 level (roughly GCSE standard).
A-level English and the Statement of Changes to Immigration Rules
The new rule was announced in the latest Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules, which updates how the UK manages visa and residency requirements.
The government plans to make English proficiency a bigger part of its immigration system, especially for skilled worker and professional visa routes.
Migrants applying under the Skilled Worker, Scale-up, or High Potential Individual routes will now have to pass an approved English test showing A-level (B2) ability.
Employers that sponsor overseas staff will need to make sure applicants meet this standard before applying for a visa.
The rule will apply to all new applications made after 8 January 2026. Anyone applying before that date can still use the old requirement.
What is a level standard English (B2 level English)?
To meet the immigrants English language requirement, applicants must show English skills at A-level standard, which equals B2 level English on the CEFR scale.
At this level, a person should be able to:
Understand the main ideas of complex spoken or written texts
Take part in discussions and express opinions clearly
Write structured, detailed text on work or everyday topics
Communicate naturally with native speakers without major effort
In short, B2 level English means being an independent user of the language.
It’s not academic or native fluency, but it shows enough confidence and accuracy to live and work effectively in an English-speaking environment.
A level English IELTS equivalent
A-Level English (≈ CEFR B2) is roughly equivalent to IELTS band scores between 5.5 and 6.5.
The government says the new standard will help with better integration and stronger participation in British society.
What this means for migrants and employers
For migrants, it means more preparation before applying for a visa.
Applicants will need to take an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) and reach at least B2 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
For employers, it means adjusting recruitment plans. Companies may need to offer English support or look for candidates who already meet the higher language standard.
New immigrants English language requirements summary
From January 2026, the UK will raise the immigrants English language requirement to A-level (B2) standard. This update, part of the Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules, applies to major work visas like Skilled Worker, Scale-up, and High Potential Individual routes.
