Increase To Required English Language Level From 08 January 2026

1. Higher English Language Threshold Introduced Under the Immigration Rules

As set out in the Statement of Changes published by the Home Office in October 2025, from 08 January 2026, the minimum English language requirement for new applicants under the Skilled Worker visa (as well as the Scale-up and High Potential Individual routes) will be increased.

Previously, applicants could demonstrate their ability in English at level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), roughly equivalent to intermediate English. Under the new Rules, first-time applicants must now show English at CEFR Level B2 – a higher, upper-intermediate standard covering speaking, listening, reading and writing – before a visa can be granted. The aim, according to government policy, is to ensure that migrant workers have stronger English skills, enabling them to integrate more readily into the workplace and wider UK society.