Tighter English language test requirement for Tier 1 and 2 applicants in the UK

26 January 2012

From 6 April 2012 we will be removing the provision for applicants in the UK to apply for permission to stay here (known as leave to remain) before they have taken or received the results of an English language test. This policy applies to applicants applying under Tier 1 (General), Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) and Tier 2 of the points-based system.

The concession was put in place when the English language requirement was introduced to allow migrants to make a visa application for leave to remain before they had taken an English language test or received the results at a time when availability of tests was not known.

Since the initial introduction of the English language requirement, English Llnguage test availability has increased and test providers have increased availability in-line with demand. Migrants should now be able to take a test in good time before needing to make a leave to remain application.

Applicants will continue to be able to take advantage of the concession for visa applications received up to and including 6 April 2012. Visa applications made after 6 April 2012 must be accompanied with evidence that applicants have passed an approved English language test.

For more information on the relevant requirements, please refer to the appropriate guidance notes:

. Tier 1 (General) - Paragraph 139 onwards

. Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) - Paragraph 141 onwards

. Tier 2 - Paragraph 145 onwards