The UK Home Office has implemented a higher English language proficiency requirement for several UK work-related visa categories, with the change taking effect from 8 January 2026, according to the UK’s updated Immigration Rules.
Under the revised rules, applicants for selected work visa routes must now demonstrate CEFR Level B2 (upper-intermediate) English proficiency, replacing the earlier B1 requirement.
What Has Changed
For applications submitted on or after 8 January 2026, the minimum English language level has been increased to CEFR B2 for the following visa categories:
- Skilled Worker visa
- Scale-up visa
- High Potential Individual (HPI) visa
This change does not apply to the UK Student visa, but is relevant for international graduates and professionals planning to switch to work routes after completing their studies.
English Language Level Explained
- New requirement: CEFR B2
- Previous requirement: CEFR B1
-
Indicative IELTS UKVI equivalence:
B2 ≈ IELTS 5.5–6.5 (minimum score requirements depend on the approved test and route)
Applicants relying on English test results must ensure their scores meet the new B2 threshold if applying from the effective date.
Official Source & Authority
The change forms part of the UK Government’s Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules, issued by the UK Home Office, and applies to new applications lodged on or after 8 January 2026.
Who Is Affected
- International graduates in the UK planning to move from Student or Graduate visas to work routes
- Overseas professionals applying directly under UK work visa categories
- Applicants who previously met B1 but do not meet B2 requirements
Applications submitted before 8 January 2026 continue to be assessed under the earlier rules, subject to transitional provisions.
Why This Matters
The revised English requirement represents a significant shift in the UK’s post-study and skilled migration framework, placing greater emphasis on higher English proficiency for long-term work and settlement pathways.
Ethicaledu News Note
This update is based on official UK immigration rule changes, not advisory speculation. Applicants are advised to check approved English tests and score equivalencies carefully when planning work visa applications in 2026.
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