The UK government has announced tougher English language requirements for foreign nationals applying for skilled worker and dependent visas, as part of a broader overhaul of its immigration system outlined in the May 2025 White Paper titled Restoring control over the immigration system. The new measures have been detailed in the UK Parliament’s Commons Library briefing, which is in line with reducing net migration. Under the proposed changes, skilled worker visa applicants will face higher standards for Englishlanguage proficiency than currently required. The briefing notes that these rules will apply to individuals who are already taking English language tests, though it does not specify the exact criteria or assessment methods.Read more: No more last-minute flight fare surprises? This airline is betting big on fixed faresThese proposals are designed to be implemented through amendments to the UK Immigration Rules and remain subject to consultation. The Home Office has indicated that public consultation will follow to determine the details and timing of these changes.
In addition, the proposals include a requirement that partners of individuals moving to the UK on work visas must meet at least a basic level of English. These proposals are designed to be implemented through amendments to the UK Immigration Rules and remain subject to consultation. The Home Office has indicated that public consultation will follow to determine the details and timing of these changes. Alongside the English language proposals, the White Paper also includes adjustments to the Skilled Worker visa route. The briefing notes that the government plans to reduce the list of eligible jobs, especially at medium-skill levels. Exemptions may be considered if sectors demonstrate a shortage of domestic labour, though the briefing does not provide specific lists of affected occupations.Read more: Indian Passport power slides to 85th on Henley Passport index: Full list of 57 visa-free countriesThe White Paper proposes changes to the period required for individuals to qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Currently, applicants may apply after five years of qualifying residence. Under the proposed changes, the standard period could be increased to ten years. The briefing also describes a proposed “earned settlement” framework, under which certain migrants may be eligible to apply for ILR earlier if they meet specific conditions outlined in the rules, including employment and other criteria. According to the Commons Library briefing, many of the proposed measures, including the English language requirements, are not yet legally in force. Some changes, such as modifications to Skilled Worker visa eligibility, have already been implemented. The new English language rules for visa applicants and their partners are subject to public consultation, after which the Home Office will publish detailed requirements and implementation timelines. The Home Office is expected to conduct public consultations on the proposed English language requirements later in 2025. Final details regarding the level of English proficiency required and how these standards will be assessed will be published following the consultation period. These measures are part of the government’s ongoing effort to reform the UK immigration system, with English language requirements highlighted as an integral component of the proposed changes to Skilled Worker visas and dependent eligibility.
