English Language Requirement for UK Spouse Visa
To qualify for a UK Spouse/Partner visa, you must demonstrate that you have a “good knowledge” of the English language.
The requirement
For your first visa application, you must prove your English language skills at a minimum of level A1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. This assessment focuses specifically on your speaking and listening abilities.
- Extensions: If you are applying to extend your visa after 2.5 years, you will typically need to demonstrate a higher level of proficiency (minimum A2).
- Settlement: When you eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), you will generally need to demonstrate level B1 and pass the “Life in the UK” test.
How to meet the requirement
You can satisfy this requirement in one of three ways:
1. Secure English Language Test (SELT)
For most applicants, this is the standard route. You must pass a test that is:
- Approved by the Home Office — only tests from providers on the official GOV.UK approved list are accepted
- Taken at an approved centre
- Valid — your test certificate must be dated within 2 years of the date you submit your visa application
2. Academic qualification
You may be exempt from the English test if you hold an academic qualification (Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, or PhD) that was taught or researched in English.
- If awarded in the UK, you generally only need your degree certificate.
- If awarded outside the UK, you must provide your degree certificate plus an official statement from Ecctis (formerly NARIC) confirming that your qualification meets the standards of a UK degree and was taught or researched in English.
3. Nationality exemption
You automatically meet the English requirement if you are a national of a country on the official Home Office list. See the guidance here: Home Office list of majority English-speaking countries.
❗ If your country is not on that list, you must meet the English requirement through a test or qualifying degree — even if English is widely spoken there. For example, South African, Singaporean and Filipino citizens still need an English test for the spouse visa.
Who is exempt?
You do not need to prove your knowledge of English if any of the following apply:
- You are aged 65 or over at the date of your application
- You have a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents you from meeting the requirement (medical evidence is required)
- There are other specific, documented reasons why you cannot meet the requirement (e.g. if there is no approved test centre in your country and it is not practicable for you to travel)
For a full list of documents to prepare across all categories, see the Document Checklist.
Always check the current list of approved test providers before booking, as the Home Office updates this list periodically.
Not sure which English test to choose?
If you know you need to take a SELT but feel unsure which provider or format to compare, see our dedicated guide:
It walks you through which approved providers you can use (inside vs outside the UK), which CEFR level you need for your specific application, and a side-by-side comparison of test format, speaking/listening style and typical costs.
💡 Note: If you’re confident in your English level, consider booking a higher SELT level now. There has been discussion that the settlement (ILR) English requirement may increase to B2 in future (see 3 Most Common Fears Explained). If your certificate is still within the 2-year validity window, having the higher-level certificate now can sometimes help you reuse it later, potentially avoiding additional tests.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules are subject to change. Always cross-reference your specific situation with the official GOV.UK Family Visas portal before submitting an application.