The UK government has announced plans to require migrants to demonstrate A-level equivalent English proficiency (CEFR B2) in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Under the new rules, which will take effect on 8 January 2026, applicants for Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual (HPI), and Scale-up visas will need to meet the higher standard.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the change as necessary to ensure migrants “learn our language and play their part” in national life.
What’s changing & who is affected
The current requirement is set at B1 level English; the upgrade to B2 (A-level standard) is a significant step up.
The change will be enforced via a Secure English Language Test administered by Home Office–approved providers.
The reforms are part of a broader immigration overhaul, detailed in the government’s recent white paper, intended to make the system more “controlled, selective and fair.”
Additional measures include placing stricter limits on how long international students can stay to find work (cut from two years to 18 months) and increasing visa-related charges paid by sponsoring employers.
The government projects that the language change alone may reduce visa applications by 400 to 1,500 in 2026–27 across key routes.
Responses & concerns
Some employers and sectors already struggling with labour shortages (e.g. in mid-skilled roles) have expressed concern that raising the bar could worsen staffing problems.
Critics fear that the tougher requirements could stigmatize migrant workers and shift the goalposts of what “integration” means. Dora-Olivia Vicol, CEO of the Work Rights Centre, warned the move “demonises migrant workers” and may reinforce stereotypes.
Observers note that most migrant workers already demonstrate good English, meaning the policy may have limited real effect on integration but high symbolic value.
Source: LIIE IMMIGRATION
