English Language
Requirement
The English language requirement applies to most UK visa applications. There are several ways to meet this based on your nationality, qualifications, or test results.
By Nationality
If you are a citizen of a majority English-speaking country, you automatically meet the language requirement. These countries include:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- USA
If you’re not from one of these countries, you may qualify through other routes explained below.
By Academic Qualifications
If you hold a degree taught or researched in English, you can meet the language requirement this way.
For qualifications from outside the UK, you must provide a certificate from UK NARIC showing equivalence to a UK degree and confirmation it was taught in English.
There are two types of certificates:
- Statement of comparability
- Visa and nationality statement
A statement of comparability is sufficient if your degree is from one of the following countries:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- USA
For other countries, you will need a visa and nationality statement.
By English Test (SELT)
You can also take a Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by the Home Office. The type of test depends on your visa route.
If you’re applying for one of these routes, you’ll need a test that includes all four skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening):
- Innovator
- Start-up
- Skilled Worker
- Student
For the following routes, only speaking and listening skills are tested:
- Tier 2 (Sportsperson)
- Representative of an Overseas Business
- Spouse (Partner)
- Parent
- Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
- Citizenship
The test level required (CEFR A1, B1, etc.) depends on the visa route. We’ll guide you through this if you choose to work with us.
When You’re Exempt
You do not need to meet the English requirement if:
- You’re over 65 years old
- You have a physical or mental condition that prevents you from doing so