London, 15 October (H.S.): The UK government will introduce tougher English language requirements for certain skilled migrants, mandating a proficiency equivalent to an A-level standard, with the new rules set to take effect from January 8, 2026. The change is part of a wider government strategy to reduce net migration and ensure new arrivals can fully integrate and contribute to national life.
The updated policy will require applicants for the Skilled Worker, Scale-up, and High Potential Individual (HPI) visa routes to pass a B2-level English test, a significant step up from the current B1 (GCSE-equivalent) standard. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that it is essential for migrants to learn the language to play their part in society, framing the move as a core component of a controlled, selective and fair immigration system.
The B2 level, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, signifies the ability to understand complex texts, communicate fluently and spontaneously with native speakers, and articulate detailed viewpoints on a wide range of subjects.
Applicants will be tested in person on their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills at Home Office-approved centers.This language requirement is a key measure from a government white paper aimed at cutting annual net migration by up to 100,000. The announcement follows official data showing net migration fell to 431,000 in 2024, a sharp decrease from the record high of 906,000 in 2023.
Experts have offered mixed reactions to the new rules. Dr. Madeleine Sumption, Director of the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford, noted that the government faces a trade-off between ensuring high language proficiency and enabling employers to fill crucial roles, particularly in middle-skilled technical and manual jobs.
Immigration lawyer Afsana Akhtar criticized the measure as potentially unfair, suggesting the standard may be too high even for some native speakers and could deter valuable skilled workers from coming to the UK.Other changes outlined in the white paper include:Reducing the post-study work period for international graduates from two years to 18 months, effective January 2027.
Increasing the financial maintenance requirements for students.Raising the immigration skills charge that employers must pay when sponsoring foreign workers.Expanding the Global Talent and HPI visa routes to attract top-tier individuals, though with an annual cap.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
