Migrants coming to the UK under certain visa routes will soon be required to demonstrate a higher level of English proficiency, under new government rules aimed at tightening immigration policy. From 8 January 2026, applicants for skilled worker, scale-up, and high potential individual (HPI) visas will need to prove they can speak English to B2 level, equivalent to an A-level standard, a step up from the current B1 (GCSE-level) requirement.
The measure is part of a broader immigration reform package first outlined in a government white paper published in May, designed to make the UK’s visa system “controlled, selective and fair.” Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the changes reflect the government’s determination to ensure migrants can fully integrate and contribute to British life. “If you come to this country, you must learn our language and play your part,” she said. “It is unacceptable for migrants to come here without learning our language, unable to contribute to our national life.”
Applicants will now be tested in person at Home Office-approved language centres, where their speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities will be assessed before a visa can be issued. The new rules apply to those seeking to work in the UK through several key immigration routes — including skilled worker visas (for individuals earning at least £41,700 or the “going rate” for their occupation), scale-up visas (for employees of fast-growing UK firms), and the HPI visa (for graduates from top global universities).
The British Council describes B2-level speakers as those who can “understand the main ideas of complex texts,” express themselves “fluently and spontaneously,” and produce “clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects.”
According to Home Office Minister Mike Tapp, further English language requirements for family dependants and additional visa categories will be introduced in due course. The policy is one of several intended to reduce migration to the UK, with internal estimates suggesting the changes could cut arrivals by up to 100,000 people a year.