Applicants for certain work visas will need to demonstrate a higher level of English from January 2026 under changes set out in Statement of Changes HC 1333 published on 14 October 2025.
This change will affect those applying for Skilled Worker, High Potential Individual (HPI) and Scale-Up visas on or after 8 January 2026. Only those applying for an initial visa under these routes are affected.
The current standard of English in these categories is already high so this is a relatively minor change, despite a strongly worded press release. Those applying under these routes must already show they can speak, listen, read and write English at level B1 under the Common European Framework of Reference. From January 2026, they will need to pass a B2 level test instead.
Where possible, applicants affected by this change could ensure their applications are made by 7 January 2026 to sit the current B1 test.