Permits2work

New English Language Requirement for Partners

November 29th, 2010

On 29 November 2010 the UK Border Agency announced that, all migrants applying to enter the UK or remain in the UK as a partner of a British citizen or a person settled here will be required to show they can speak and understand English.

The new English requirement does not apply to the following;

1. spouse or partner of Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa applicants
2. spouse or partner of a student
3. visitors
4. refugees or spouses of refugees applying on the basis of family reunion
5. dependent children
6. spouse or partner of an EEA national
7. spouse or partner of a member of the armed forces applying under Part 7 of the Immigration Rules
8. applicants applying for indefinite leave to remain

If you made an application before 29 November 2010 then, all applications submitted before this date will be considered in accordance with the Rules in force at the time of application.

To meet the new English language requirement the applicant must;

1. pass an recognized test at a minimum level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), at an approved provider by the UK Border Agency, or
2. be a national of a majority English speaking country, or
3. have an academic qualification equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in the UK which was taught in English (must be verified).