The English language requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK is increasing from CEFR B1 to B2 from 26 March 2027.
The change will affect those living in the UK on most immigration routes including Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, Global Talent and family routes and was first announced in March 2026.
What is changing?
If applying for ILR before 26 March 2027, applicants must demonstrate B1 speaking and listening.
If applying for ILR from 26 March 2027, applicants must demonstrate B2 speaking and listening.
Applicants do not need to demonstrate B2 reading and writing specifically for the ILR requirement. However, since January 2026 most work visas have faced a higher B2 requirement including speaking, listening, reading and writing if applying for the first time - more than what is required for ILR.
Exemptions continue to apply, including for applicants aged under 18 and over 65.
Existing English language requirements for visa applications and extensions continue to depend on the specific immigration route.
What is the difference between B1 and B2?
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is an internationally recognised system for assessing language ability. It ranges from A1 (beginner) to C2 (fluent - fully proficient). For immigration purposes, B1 is generally regarded as intermediate, and B2 is upper-intermediate.
B1 has been described as equivalent to GCSE-level English, whereas B2 has been described as A-Level standard.
The Home Office estimates that it takes approximately 200 hours of language learning to move from level B1 to B2.
Approved English test providers and tests
There are five companies that have been approved to run the UKVI English language tests:
- LanguageCert
- Pearson Education
- IELTS SELT Consortium
- Trinity College London - in the UK only
- PSI Services (UK) Ltd – overseas only
The list of approved tests inside and outside the UK are in two separate spreadsheets here: Prove your English language abilities with a secure English language test (SELT).
Tests are generally valid for two years. However, it may be possible to rely on an older test in some circumstances.
Exemptions
Applicants under 18 and over 65 continue to be exempt.
Some applicants may meet the English requirement as a citizen of a majority English-speaking country, through a GCSE or A-Level undertaken while under 18, through a UK degree or through an overseas degree taught in English.
Applicants who have already demonstrated the required level of English in a previous application may be able to rely on this.
It may also be possible to request an exemption based on a long-term physical or mental condition.
A list of the majority English-speaking countries is below:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- The British Overseas Territories
- Canada
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Jamaica
- Malta
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United States of America
What should I do to prepare for the change?
First, consider when you will be eligible to apply for ILR and if the new, higher B2 requirement will apply to you.
Second, consider whether any of the above exemptions may apply to you.
Third, if a test is required, prepare early for the B2 test but keep in mind that tests will only be valid for two years for UK immigration purposes unless accepted in a previous application.
If there are concerns the new threshold won't be met before existing permission is due to expire, a contingency plan should be put in place.
For further advice on ILR planning
Contact Turpin Miller for tailored advice and assistance with your settlement application.