UK Skilled Worker Visa B2 English Rule 2026: HR Guide

New applicants for the Skilled Worker visa (and Scale-up & HPI routes) must now meet B2 CEFR English level for first-time applications from 8 January 2026.

Existing visa holders with a prior B1 grant can continue using B1 for extensions and further permission on the same route.

Multiple official ways exist to prove B2 proficiency, including degrees taught in English and approved SELT tests.

The change may extend recruitment lead times and slightly raise testing costs for employers hiring non-exempt international talent.

Proactive compliance helps avoid application refusals and supports faster onboarding.

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From 8 January 2026, any candidate making their first application for a Skilled Worker visa must demonstrate English language ability at B2 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) in all four components: reading, writing, speaking and listening. This is an increase from the previous B1 requirement and applies equally to the Scale-up Worker and High Potential Individual routes. Transitional protection exists for those already holding permission granted under the B1 standard. Employers sponsoring new international hires should verify the candidate’s proof method against official GOV.UK criteria to prevent refusals and minimise processing delays.

What Has Changed and Why It Matters to Employers

Official GOV.UK guidance now requires B2 proficiency for all new entry-clearance and first-time permission applications under the Skilled Worker route. The same B2 threshold applies to new Scale-up and High Potential Individual applicants.

The update forms part of wider policy measures to strengthen integration and ensure sponsored workers can communicate effectively in professional UK environments from day one. For HR and global mobility teams, the practical effect is straightforward: any candidate who has never held Skilled Worker (or equivalent prior Tier 2 General) permission must meet the higher standard when applying on or after 8 January 2026.

Who Must Meet the New B2 Requirement

All candidates submitting their first Skilled Worker, Scale-up or HPI application on or after 8 January 2026.
Candidates switching from other routes (e.g., Student to Skilled Worker) for their initial Skilled Worker grant.
Not required for extensions or settlement applications where the applicant’s most recent permission was granted subject to the B1 requirement.

Official Ways to Prove B2 English Proficiency

According to the dedicated GOV.UK page “Skilled Worker visa: Knowledge of English”, candidates can satisfy the requirement through one of the following:

A UK school qualification (GCSE, A-level, Scottish National 4/5 or Higher/Advanced Higher in English, started before age 18).
A degree awarded by a UK institution (taught in English).
A degree from a non-UK institution taught in English, confirmed by Ecctis as equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree or higher and taught in English.
A Secure English Language Test (SELT) from a Home Office-approved provider showing at least B2 in all four skills.

Exemptions

Nationals of majority English-speaking countries listed on GOV.UK (e.g., Australia, Canada, USA, New Zealand, etc.).
Doctors, dentists, nurses, midwives or veterinary surgeons who have already passed an English assessment accepted by the relevant UK regulatory body for professional registration.

Full list and approved SELT providers are published on the official GOV.UK pages linked at the end of this article.

Practical Steps for HR and Global Mobility Teams

Screen early Include the B2 requirement in job postings and initial candidate outreach for roles likely to require sponsorship.
Request proof documentation at the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) assignment stage and retain copies for sponsor records.
Factor in lead time SELT bookings at B2 level and Ecctis assessments can add 2–6 weeks; plan recruitment timelines accordingly.
Leverage transitional rules For candidates already in the UK on a prior Skilled Worker visa granted under B1 rules, confirm the lower threshold still applies for extensions.
Brief recruitment partners Share the official GOV.UK links so agencies and relocation providers apply the correct standard.

Impact on International Hiring Timelines and Costs

Most candidates from English-medium education backgrounds will meet the requirement via their degree with minimal extra effort. For others, the step from B1 to B2 typically requires modest additional preparation rather than a complete re-test. Approved SELT providers offer B2-specific tests, and costs remain comparable to previous B1 tests (typically £150–£250 depending on location and provider).

By aligning recruitment processes with the updated GOV.UK rules now, employers can avoid last-minute refusals and maintain momentum in their global talent acquisition pipelines.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does the B2 requirement apply to dependants of Skilled Worker visa holders?

No. Dependants are not subject to the English language requirement for the main applicant’s Skilled Worker route. However, adult dependants applying for settlement (ILR) will need to meet their own separate English language requirement at that stage.

Can a candidate who passed a B1 SELT last year still use it for a new Skilled Worker application in 2026?

Only if the applicant already holds immigration permission that was granted under the B1 standard. New first-time Skilled Worker applicants must provide fresh English language evidence at CEFR B2 level.

How long is a SELT result valid for a Skilled Worker visa application?

A Secure English Language Test (SELT) result is valid for two years from the date of the test. The result must still be valid on the date the Skilled Worker visa application is submitted.

What happens if a sponsored worker’s English language evidence is refused?

The entire visa application will be refused. In addition, the sponsor may face increased compliance scrutiny from the Home Office. Employers should always verify English language evidence against the latest GOV.UK “Knowledge of English” guidance before assigning a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

Are there any plans to raise the English language requirement beyond B2?

As of February 2026, official guidance confirms B2 as the required English language level for Skilled Worker, Scale-up, and High Potential Individual routes. Employers and HR teams should continue to monitor the Immigration Rules and GOV.UK sponsor guidance for any future Statements of Changes.

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