For most UK visa categories the main applicant must submit evidence to the Home Office to confirm that they have a certain level of English language ability.
Each visa route will specify the level of English language that is required for a visa, and also for settlement – if applicable. The requirement for each route is set out in the rules for the relevant routes and how it is met is set out in Appendix English Language of the Immigration Rules.
Does everyone have to demonstrate English language?
There are a few visa categories that do not impose any language requirements, including:
- Investor;
- Intra-Company Transfer;
- Student (Child);
- T5 Youth Mobility Scheme;
- T5 Temporary Worker; and
- Visit visas
Is anyone exempt from proving English Language ability?
An individual applying to settle in the UK (Indefinite Leave to Remain or Naturalisation/Registration) will be exempt from meeting the English Language requirement, provided that at the date of the application:
- The individual is aged 65 or over; or
- The individual is aged under 18; or
- The individual has a long-term physical or mental condition which prohibits them from satisfying the English language requirement may also be exempt but will be required to submit evidence to confirm their condition.
Does anyone meet the requirement automatically?
If the applicant is a national of a majority English speaking country, they will automatically meet the English Language requirement, provided that they can evidence that they are a national of any of the following countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Jamaica
- Malta
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United States of America
Do dependents need to prove that they can speak English?
Dependants do not need to prove English language ability when applying for a visa to enter the UK, or to extend their stay. However, they will need to prove that they can speak English to a certain level if they apply for settlement in the UK.
The age exemptions also apply as for the main applicant, so children under the age of 18, and adults aged over 65, do not need to evidence their language ability.
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