English Language Requirement is one of the most essential requirements of your visa application. The Home Office has recently published an updated list of tests and centres approved by the Home Office. In order to show that the applicants have the required level of English for their visa application, they need to sit an exam and provide the Home Office with a language certificate. If you are coming to the UK as a student, a spouse or to work, you are required to have a minimum level of A1 or B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) in speaking and listening from a UKVI approved centre. Our experienced solicitors will guide you through the main differences between the level requirements and advice you on other requirements of your application.
English Language Requirement
Applicants applying for UK visas need to prove their knowledge of English by having a recognised English test qualification from an approved test centre. Applicants would need to submit the original certificate with their application and make sure they meet the relevant level of English language.
If you are coming to the UK as a student, a spouse or to work, you are required to have a minimum level of A1 or B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) in speaking and listening from a UKVI approved centre. Applicants willing to apply for citizenship or to settle in the UK (known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) would need to have an English qualification at minimum B1 level or hold a degree taught or researched in English. Your application will be refused if you send the wrong qualification, so make sure that you seek legal advice before submitting your application.
List of Approved English Language Tests and Test Centres
Some applicants might be exempt from the English Language Requirement if they are aged 65 or over or unable to take the test because of a long-term physical or mental condition. Also, nationals of the following countries would not need to prove their knowledge of English and sit an exam: Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland (for citizenship only), St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago, USA. Nationals of countries that are not on the list will need to prove their knowledge of English, even if English is an official language.
Using Legal Representation to Submit Your Immigration and Visa Application
Legal representatives, such as our specialist immigration lawyers, are qualified to advise you on immigration law and your immigration status. It is possible to instruct a legal representative to submit a visa application and advise you on the whole process.
Caseworkers at the Home Office are trained to reject applications which are improperly prepared for example by failing to provide the correct supporting evidence. In order to ensure your application succeeds, all necessary documents must be provided.
This can be a significant administrative task and you will need to submit the correct documentary evidence. The UK Immigration Rules are complex and a legal representative can help ensure that your application meets the Immigration Rules.
Successful Visa Applications from UK Immigration Experts London Immigration Solicitors
Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your immigration status and the merit of your applications before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation of your immigration or visa application and ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.
We are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients. We are minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.
Preparation is the key to successful immigration applications. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation.