If you’re applying for a UK Skilled Worker visa, one important requirement you must meet is proving your English language skills. This article explains how you can meet this requirement in simple terms, and shows you different ways you can qualify.
What is the English Language Requirement for a Skilled Worker Visa?
As part of your Skilled Worker visa application, you need to prove that you can understand, speak, read, and write in English. There are several ways to meet this requirement:
- Passing an approved English language test
- Being exempt from the requirement
- Having already met the requirement in a previous application
- Being from an English-speaking country
- Having a relevant degree taught in English
- Having a GCSE or A-Level in English
Let’s break each one down.
1. Passing an Approved English Language Test
One of the most common ways to meet the English language requirement is by passing an approved English language test. The UK government requires you to reach at least a B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
What is B1 level?
At B1, you should be able to:
- Understand the main points of clear spoken or written information on familiar topics (like work, school, or leisure)
- Handle most situations if you’re travelling where English is spoken
- Write simple texts on familiar topics and explain your opinions or plans
To prove you’ve passed the test, you will need a reference number from an approved provider, showing you’ve passed a Secure English Language Test (SELT) within the last two years.
2. Exemptions from the English Language Requirement
You might not need to meet the English language requirement if:
- You are under 18 or over 65 years old
- You have a physical or mental disability that prevents you from learning English
3. Meeting the Requirement from a Previous Application
If you’ve already shown you meet the English language requirement in a previous UK visa application (such as a student visa), you do not need to do it again. Your previous application must have been successful.
4. Being From an English-Speaking Country
If you are a national of one of the following English-speaking countries, you automatically meet the requirement:
- 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
- USA
If you hold dual nationality, you can also meet this requirement if one of your nationalities is from an English-speaking country.
You will need to provide proof of your nationality, such as a passport or ID card.
5. Having a Degree Taught in English
If you have a degree or higher qualification that was taught in English, you can also meet the language requirement. The qualification can be from:
- A UK university or college
- A university in an English-speaking country (excluding Canada)
- A degree-level qualification taught in English, recognized as equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree or higher
You will need to provide proof of your qualification, such as a certificate or transcript.
6. Having a GCSE or A-Level in English
If you have a GCSE, A-Level, Scottish National Qualification, or an equivalent qualification in English (either English language or English literature), you may meet the language requirement. This must have been gained while you were studying at a school in the UK.
You will need to provide a certificate or transcript from the awarding body.
Many Skilled Worker visa applicants already meet the English language requirement without even realizing it. This could be through your nationality, a previous degree, or an English qualification.
If you’re unsure whether you meet the requirements, it’s a good idea to talk to an immigration expert at Law and Visas. They can review your situation and help you understand the best next steps to take.
