News Update: English Language Requirement Rising to B2 – Landmark Earned Settlement Reforms

Hamlets Training Centre Update – 5 March 2026

Migrants applying to settle permanently in the UK will now need to speak English to a higher standard, under landmark reforms announced by the Home Office. Applicants are being given a full year’s notice to prepare, providing the best opportunity to integrate fully into British life.

This change is the first major milestone in the government’s Earned Settlement reforms, which aim to reward those who contribute, integrate, and follow the rules. Since January, most work visa applicants have already been required to meet A-level equivalent standards in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, raised from the previous GCSE standard.

Key English Language Requirements

  • Applications before 26 March 2027:
    Applicants must pass a Home Office–approved English test in speaking and listening at B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The test must be taken at a Home Office-approved SELT centre within two years of the application date.

  • Applications on or after 26 March 2027:
    The requirement increases to B2 level English. Applicants must take an approved test at a SELT centre and complete it within two years of application. Reaching B2 typically requires around 200 hours of study beyond B1.

Government Perspective

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood highlighted the importance of English fluency:

“Migration will always be a vital part of Britain’s story, but the public rightly expect those who come here to integrate, contribute and share our British values. Fluency in English is the single easiest path to integration and contribution. It is how you find work, support your family, and play a full part in British life. Work hard, learn the language, and contribute to your community. That is the contract we are now writing into law.”

The reforms will come into effect in March 2027 through an Immigration Rules change. They also include wider changes:

  • The standard qualifying period for settlement will double to 10 years for most migrants, with reductions for those making a positive contribution to the UK.

  • Skilled frontline workers, such as doctors and nurses, may qualify after 5 years, while high earners and entrepreneurs could be fast-tracked to just 3 years.

Over 200,000 responses were received during the public consultation, which are being carefully considered before further reforms are introduced.

What This Means for Migrants

  • Migrants planning to settle before 26 March 2027 should ensure they pass their B1 English test early.

  • Those applying after the cut-off will need to meet the B2 standard, which requires more preparation and study.

💡 Hamlets Training Centre encourages all eligible applicants to start preparing for their English test now to meet the updated requirements and secure a smoother settlement process.