Changes to English language requirements for work routes to the UK

From 8 January 2026, applicants wanting to come to the UK in the Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual and Scale-up routes will have to satisfy a tougher English language requirement. The level will be increased from level B1 (roughly GCSE standard) to B2 which is broadly equivalent to an A-level standard of English.

Transitional arrangements will be in place for those who already hold a visa in one of these categories where the level of English was set at B1.

No changes were announced relating to the English language requirement for partner and family visas.

The Government also announced other changes, including reducing the duration of the Graduate route visa to 18 months. At present graduates from a UK bachelors or masters degree can remain for 2 years, whilst PhD graduates can stay for 3 years. The changes will take effect from 1 January 2027.