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ARTICLE · 04 NOVEMBER 2025

English Language Requirement For Workers To Be Raised To B2 Level And Other Forthcoming Changes Announced In October 2025

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From 8 January 2026, applicants for the Skilled Worker, Scale-Up and High Potential Individual visas will be required to show knowledge of English to B2 standard in all for components (reading, writing, speaking and listening).

United KingdomImmigration
Helena Sheizon
Helena Sheizon
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From 8 January 2026, applicants for theSkilled Worker,Scale-UpandHigh Potential Individualvisas will be required to show knowledge of English to B2 standard in all for components (reading, writing, speaking and listening).

This raises the plank from the current B1 to a higher standard.

Graduates from the UK Universities will continue to automatically meet the English language requirement.

There are no changes to the English language requirement for family members of British citizens.

Other changes announced in October include shortening of theGraduate route visato 18 months for applications made after 1 January 2027. The changes will not affect PhD and other Doctoral graduates who will continue to be eligible for 3 years visa under the Graduate route.

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