UKVI applications come with a number of different requirements that need to be met before the Home Office will approve and issue the visa. One of the main requirements for most applications is demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the English Language. There are a number of ways an Applicant can satisfy the English Language requirement and our immigration solicitors are happy to review the English Language evidence to determine whether it meets the Home Office’s Immigration Rules. Please contact our Immigration Team in order to schedule a consultation with our specialist lawyers.
Who needs to satisfy the English Language requirement?
Most UK Visas and Immigration applications require an Applicant to satisfy an English Language requirement. The level of English Language ability and which abilities will depend on the visa route.
Applicants under the following visa routes must take a test that assesses their speaking and listening abilities:
- T2 Sportsperson;
- Representative of an Overseas Business;
- Partner and parent visas under Appendix FM;
- Indefinite Leave to Remain; and
- Naturalisation.
Applicants under the following visa routes must take a test that assesses their reading, writing, speaking and listening abilities:
- Start-up and Innovator visa;
- Skilled Worker visa;
- T2 Minister of Religion; and
- Student visa.
Investor Visa and Global Talent Visa Applicants do not need to satisfy an English Language requirement.
Satisfying the English Language requirement through a Degree
One way that Applicants can satisfy the English Language requirement is by having a degree either from a UK University or that was taught or researched in English. If the degree was from an UK University then a copy of the degree certificate will be sufficient evidence to demonstrate the English Language requirement.
If the degree is not from a UK University then an Applicant will need to provide a copy of the degree certificate and confirmation from UK NARIC confirming that the degree is equivalent to a UK qualification. If the degree is from a non-majority English-speaking country then they will also need an English Language Proficiency Statement from UK NARIC confirming the degree was taught in English.
Satisfying the English Language requirement by being a national of a majority English speaking country
The Home Office has a list of majority English speaking countries where nationals of those countries satisfy the English Language requirement by this means. Nationals of the following countries therefore only need to provide their passports to demonstrate the same:
You do not need to prove your knowledge of English if you’ve completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in one of the following countries, or are from one of the following countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda;
- Australia;
- the Bahamas;
- Barbados;
- Belize;
- Canada;
- Dominica;
- Grenada;
- Guyana;
- Ireland;
- Jamaica;
- Malta;
- New Zealand;
- St Kitts and Nevis;
- St Lucia;
- St Vincent and the Grenadines;
- Trinidad and Tobago; and
- USA.
Satisfying the English Language requirement by passing a secure English Language Test
If an Applicant is not from a majority English speaking country or does not have a degree taught in English, then they will need to sit and pass an English Language test at an approved testing provider; which can be found through the Gov.uk website.
The level of English Language ability is known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (“CEFR”) level and it will depend on the route the Applicant is applying under. Applicants should check the relevant guidance for the level that their visa route requires.
Applicants who pass an English Language test will be awarded a certificate with a unique certificate number. Applicants should be aware that English Language certificates are only valid for two years.
Who is exempt from the English Language requirement?
Certain Applicants can be exempt from having to satisfy the English Language requirement through their age or mental condition. Exemptions listed under the Immigration Rules are:
- If the Applicant is under 18 years of age at the date of the application; or
- If the Applicant is at least 65 years of age at the date of the application; or
- If the decision maker considers that, because of the Applicant’s mental or physical condition, it would be unreasonable to expect the Applicant to fulfil the English Language requirement.
Using our Immigration Solicitors in London to demonstrate the English Language requirement
Legal representatives, such as our specialist immigration law firm, are qualified to advise you on immigration law and your immigration status. It is possible to instruct a legal representative to submit a visa application and advise you on the whole process.
Caseworkers at the Home Office are trained to reject applications which are improperly prepared for example by failing to provide the correct supporting evidence. In order to ensure your application succeeds, all necessary documents must be provided.
This can be a significant administrative task and you will need to submit the correct documentary evidence. The UK Immigration Rules are complex and a legal representative can help ensure that your application meets the Immigration Rules.
Successfully demonstrate the English Language requirement with our Immigration Solicitors in London
Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your immigration status and the merit of your applications before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation of your immigration or visa application and ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.
We are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients. We are minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.
Preparation is the key to successful immigration applications. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation.
Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.