What is the English language requirement for a Skilled Worker visa?

As part of a Skilled Worker visa application, you will need to meet the English language requirement. This requirement can be met in a number of ways, which we outline below.

The English language requirement can be met in the following ways:

• You are a national of a majority English speaking country – the Home Office has a specific list of countries;
• You have passed an English language test at level B1 or above in speaking, listening, reading and writing – the test must be Home Office approved and you must attain the minimum score to meet the requirements;
• You hold a degree that was taught in English – if your degree was taught outside of the UK, it will need to be verified by an organisation called ECCTIS to confirm that it meets the requirements;

There are other ways to meet the English language requirement, such as if you met this requirement previously in a successful visa application or if you have a GSCE or A Level (or equivalent) in English that was taught in the UK whilst you were under 18 years old.

If you are coming to work in the UK as doctor, dentist, nurse, midwife or veterinarian, you may also meet this requirement if you already passed an English Language assessment, approved by the relevant regulated professional body.

As above, there are a number of ways to meet the English language requirement, however, they are very specific, and therefore it is crucial to ensure all components are satisfied in order to submit a successful application.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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