The English language bar for UK settlement is about to rise — and if your ILR date falls after March 2027, your current test certificate may not be enough.
What is changing and when?
From 26 March 2027, applicants for Indefinite Leave to Remain on most work and family routes must demonstrate B2 level English in speaking and listening under the CEFR framework. Currently, B1 is sufficient at the settlement stage. The change was confirmed in Statement of Changes HC 1691.
Does B2 apply to reading and writing too?
No — this is a crucial clarification. The B2 uplift applies to speaking and listening only. Reading and writing remain at the current B1 level for ILR purposes. This means you only need to achieve B2 in two of the four IELTS components.
Which English tests are accepted for B2 ILR?
- ✓IELTS for UKVI — 5.5 or above in speaking and listening components
- ✓LanguageCert International ESOL SELT — B2 level
- ✓PTE Academic for UKVI — minimum 59 in speaking and listening
- ✓PSI Services (UK) Ltd — B2 level test
- ✓Trinity College London GESE — Grade 9 or above (B2)
💡 Tip
English test certificates are typically valid for 2 years. If your ILR application date is after March 2027, make sure your certificate will still be valid on that date — not just when you take the test.
Who is affected by this change?
- ✓Skilled Worker Visa holders applying for ILR from 26 March 2027
- ✓Health & Care Worker Visa holders settling after March 2027
- ✓Spouse and partner visa holders on the 5-year settlement route
- ✓Global Talent Visa holders applying for ILR after the deadline
- ✓Anyone whose ILR eligibility date falls on or after 26 March 2027
I showed B1 for my initial visa — do I need to retest?
Yes. The entry requirement for the Skilled Worker Visa remains B1, but the ILR stage requires B2 from March 2027. These are assessed separately. Even if you passed B1 for your initial visa application, you will need a new B2-level test for your ILR application if it falls after the deadline.
Can I apply before March 2027 to avoid the new rule?
If you are eligible to apply for ILR before 26 March 2027, applications submitted before that date will continue to be assessed under the current B1 requirement. You can apply up to 28 days before your 5-year qualifying date — so if your anniversary falls in early April 2027, you may be able to apply in March and still use B1.
Check your exact ILR eligibility date — see if you can apply before the B2 rule kicks in
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