The UK government has announced that starting January 8, 2026, applicants for the Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual, and Scale-Up visa routes will be required to demonstrate English proficiency at the B2 level—equivalent to A-Level or Class 12 standard—across speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
Many of these visa applicants are currently governed by the lower B1 requirement. The upgrade to B2 is part of a wider immigration reform to improve integration and ensure new arrivals can function effectively in the UK workforce and society.
In addition to the language test changes, the government confirmed that students on the Graduate Route who apply from January 1, 2027, will have their post-study work period reduced from two years to 18 months (three years for PhD holders).
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the measures reflect a desire for migrants who come to the UK to be able to “learn our language and play their part” in British society.
The new rules will especially affect applicants from countries such as India, given the popularity of the Skilled Worker and Graduate visa routes among Indian professionals and graduates. Those planning to apply are advised to begin preparing early for the more challenging English test and to review the broader set of immigration changes now underway.
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