Settlement English explainer highlights preparation for B2 requirements
27 Oct 2026
If you plan to apply for ILR on a work route or the UK Ancestry route, the English level you need may be going up. An explainer published on 26 October 2026 by adviser Five Star International says: "From 26 March 2027, this requirement will increase to B2 level." This is informational coverage by an adviser, not a new announcement. The page describes the change as part of the proposed "Earned Settlement" reforms.
The page says that "At the moment, many work visa holders need to show English at B1 level." It says the B2 requirement "will apply to migrants on several work and business visa routes, including" Skilled Worker, Scale-up Worker, Global Talent, Representative of an Overseas Business, UK Ancestry and International Sportsperson.
Five Star says applicants "should start preparing early to make sure they meet the new requirement." It lists two possible exemptions: a UK degree taught in English, and a passport from a majority English-speaking country. It adds that "you will likely need to pass a B2 English language test" if no exemption applies, and that "it is important to get advice in advance."
What to do: check the official GOV.UK guidance for the rules that apply to your route and your application date. Work out whether you have an exemption. If not, think about when you could sit a test. A regulated immigration adviser can confirm how the change affects you.
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