Most UK visa and settlement applications require you to prove your English. The rules differ by route and have just got tougher for workers, so it’s easy to book the wrong test. This 2026 guide explains the approved tests, the exact CEFR level you need for each visa, the IELTS for UKVI scores, and who is exempt.
The approved tests (SELT)
You must take an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) from one of five Home Office providers: IELTS for UKVI, Pearson PTE Academic UKVI, LanguageCert SELT, Trinity College London, and PSI Skills for English UKVI. Crucially, you must book the UKVI-specific version at an approved centre — a standard IELTS or PTE is not accepted for immigration, whatever your score.
What level do you need? (by route)
- Skilled Worker: B2 for new applications from 8 January 2026 (IELTS for UKVI 5.5 in each skill); extensions of existing visas continue at B1.
- Spouse / partner: A1 for your first application, A2 to extend, and B1 for settlement (ILR).
- Student: B1–B2 depending on course level (degree-level courses generally need B2).
- ILR & citizenship: B1 now — rising to B2 for applications from 26 March 2027.
IELTS for UKVI scores
- B2: at least 5.5 in each of the four components (the full four-skill test).
- A1 / A2 / B1: a Pass in the relevant IELTS for UKVI Life Skills test (speaking and listening only).
Who is exempt?
- Nationals of majority English-speaking countries (USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, most Caribbean states and others on the Home Office list).
- People with an academic degree taught in English (confirmed by ECCTIS if obtained abroad).
- Applicants under 18 or aged 65+, or with a long-term physical or mental condition.
How to book and prepare
Book the UKVI version online with one of the five providers, choosing a centre and date, then bring valid ID. Keep your results — you’ll upload the reference with your visa application. Note that English is separate from the Life in the UK Test, which is also required for settlement and citizenship.
See the routes this applies to: Skilled Worker, spouse visa, student visa and citizenship.
Frequently asked questions
Which English test do I need for a UK visa?
An approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as IELTS for UKVI, Pearson PTE UKVI, LanguageCert SELT, Trinity or PSI — booked as the UKVI version, not the standard test.
What English level do I need for a UK visa?
It depends on the route: Skilled Worker B2 (new applications from 8 January 2026; extensions B1), spouse/partner A1 then A2 then B1 for settlement, students B1–B2, and ILR/citizenship B1 (rising to B2 from 26 March 2027).
What IELTS for UKVI score is B2?
At least 5.5 in each of the four components.
Who is exempt from the English requirement?
Nationals of majority English-speaking countries, people with a degree taught in English, and applicants under 18 or aged 65 and over.
Can I use a standard IELTS for my visa?
No — only the UKVI-specific version from an approved test centre is accepted.
Is the English test the same as the Life in the UK Test?
No — they are separate. Settlement and citizenship require both an approved English test (at the right level) and a Life in the UK Test pass.
