Applicants for a UK spouse visa must meet the English language condition under the Immigration Rules. This requirement ensures that applicants can communicate effectively and integrate into life in the UK.
Key Takeaways:
- The English language requirement applies to all applicants unless exempt.
- You can meet it by:
- Passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT)
- Using an academic degree taught in English
- Holding a passport from a majority English-speaking country
- Required CEFR levels:
- A1 for first spouse visa applications
- A2 for extensions (after 2.5 years)
- B1 for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Exemptions apply if you are aged 65+, have a permanent medical condition, or can prove exceptional circumstances.
- All supporting documents must be in English or provided with a certified translation.
What is the English Language Requirement?
To apply for a spouse visa, you must show basic English skills in speaking and listening, as required by the Immigration Rules.
- First application (entry clearance or FLR(M)) → A1 level CEFR
- Visa extension → A2 level CEFR
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) → B1 level CEFR
This ensures applicants can progress from basic conversation to more advanced English ability over time.
Check Also: UK Spouse Visa on Low Income – How to Apply
Approved Ways to Prove English Ability:
1. Secure English Language Test (SELT)
The most common method is taking a Home Office–approved SELT in speaking and listening.
Approved test providers (as of 2025):
- IELTS Life Skills
- Trinity College London (GESE)
- LanguageCert SELT
- Pearson PTE Academic UKVI
Key points:
- Tests must be taken at a Home Office–approved test centre.
- Your test must match the CEFR level required for your application stage.
- Results are usually valid for two years.
2. Academic Qualification in English
You may qualify if you have:
- A UK bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or PhD (automatically accepted).
- A degree taught in English outside the UK (must be verified by Ecctis, formerly UK NARIC).
Documents required:
- Degree certificate
- Ecctis “Visa and Nationality Statement” confirming the degree was taught in English
The Home Office will not accept foreign degrees without Ecctis confirmation.
3. Nationality from a Majority English-Speaking Country
Nationals of certain countries automatically meet the requirement.
Accepted countries include:
- USA
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Jamaica
- Barbados
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Saint Lucia
- Grenada
- Dominica
- Antigua and Barbuda
- The Bahamas
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Evidence required:
- A valid passport showing nationality
For the latest and complete list, see the official guidance: English language requirement (GOV.UK)
Exemptions:
Some applicants may be exempt from the English requirement:
- Age – Applicants aged 65 or over at the time of application.
- Medical conditions – A permanent physical or mental condition making it impossible to meet the requirement. Evidence must be from a UK-registered medical practitioner.
- Exceptional circumstances – Rare cases where requiring compliance would be unreasonable. Each case is considered individually, with strong evidence required.
Documents You Must Provide:
Depending on your chosen method, submit:
- SELT certificate (with test provider details)
- Degree certificate + Ecctis statement (if applicable)
- Passport (if from a recognised English-speaking country)
- Medical evidence (if claiming exemption)
All documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Taking the wrong test level (for example, A1 instead of A2 for an extension)
- Submitting a degree certificate without Ecctis confirmation
- Using an expired test certificate
- Assuming a country qualifies without checking the official list
Summary:
Meeting the English language requirement is a mandatory part of the UK spouse visa application. You can prove your ability by taking an approved test, providing an English-taught degree, or showing a passport from a majority English-speaking country.
Exemptions exist but are limited, and evidence is essential. Always use the latest guidance from the Home Office before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which English tests are accepted?
Approved providers include IELTS Life Skills, Pearson PTE Home, LanguageCert SELT, Trinity College London, and PSI (for tests outside the UK).
Who must meet the English language requirement?
Applicants aged 18 to 65 applying as a spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner for entry clearance or extension must meet the English language requirement unless exempt. Children are not required to meet this rule.
How long is the test valid?
SELT certificates are valid for two years. If your certificate has expired, you will need to retake the test unless your previous result already meets the higher level required for the next application stage.