English language requirement levels for immigration applications
Published 8 January 2026
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/english-language-requirement-levels-for-immigration-applications/english-language-requirement-levels-for-immigration-applications
This guidance sets out the English language requirement levels for entry clearance and permission to stay applications.
The English language requirement level you need to meet, known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level, will depend on the route you are applying for.
You may be required to pass a secure English language test (SELT) to prove your knowledge of English.
| Route | Entry Clearance | Permission to Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Family visa | A1 | A1 - if this is your first application A2 - if you are applying to extend your stay |
| Student | B2 - if you’re studying at a UK bachelors level or above B1 - if you’re studying below UK bachelors level |
B2 - if you’re studying at a UK bachelors level or above B1 - if you’re studying below UK bachelors level |
| Skilled Worker | B2 | B2, except where applicant’s previous permission as a Skilled Worker was subject to a B1 requirement |
| T2 Minister of Religion | B2 | B2 |
| Representative of an Overseas Business | A1 | A1 |
| High Potential Individual | B2 | B2 |
| Scale Up | B2 | B2, except where applicant’s previous permission as a Scale Up worker was subject to a B1 requirement |
| Innovator Founder | B2 | B2 |
| International Sportsperson | A1 - if applying for more than 12 months | A1 - if applying for more than 12 months |
| International Agreement (Temporary Work) | B1 | B1 |
| Family members of HM Armed Forces | A1 | A1 |