English Language Requirement Raised to B2 for Skilled Workers
08 Jan 2026
From today, the English language requirement for Skilled Worker visa applicants has been raised from CEFR B1 to B2 — a significant increase that affects new applications.
What Changed
For main applicants (Skilled Worker, Scale-up, High Potential Individual):
- New applications from 8 January 2026 require B2 level English (equivalent to a foreign language A-level)
- Previously, B1 (equivalent to GCSE) was sufficient
For adult dependants (new requirement):
- A1 level required for initial entry
- A2 level required for visa extensions
- B2 level required at the settlement (ILR) stage
Who Is Not Affected
If you already hold a Skilled Worker visa and met the B1 requirement under the old rules, you can continue to extend and apply for settlement on the same route without retaking the test at B2 level. This is an important transitional provision.
What B2 Level Means
B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) means you can:
- Understand the main ideas of complex text
- Interact with a degree of fluency with native speakers
- Produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects
Approved test providers include IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic UKVI, Trinity College London, and LanguageCert. Test results are valid for 2 years.
Action Items
- If you are planning a new Skilled Worker application, ensure you can meet the B2 standard
- If you are an existing visa holder, check whether the transitional provisions protect your current English language evidence
- If you are a dependant applying for the first time, you will now need to pass an A1 English test
Source: Prove your knowledge of English for citizenship and settling (GOV.UK)