The requirement
Every Skilled Worker visa applicant must prove knowledge of English at CEFR Level B1 or above in all four components: reading, writing, speaking and listening. There are several ways to meet the requirement, but the most common route for care sector applicants is the IELTS for UKVI.
You may be able to use an expired BRP as an ID until 31 December 2026, but your test must be no later than 24 months after the expiry date printed on the card. You must bring your expired BRP or BRC with you on the day of the test.
IELTS for UKVI: the correct test
The test must specifically be the IELTS for UKVI (General Training). A standard IELTS Academic or General Training certificate that is not labelled "for UKVI" will not be accepted, even if the score is high enough. This is a recurring cause of refused applications.
The test must cover all four components at the same sitting. Component-by-component test results from different sittings cannot be combined to meet the requirement.
The test must be taken at a UKVI-approved test centre. The list of approved centres is maintained on GOV.UK and changes occasionally, so candidates should confirm the centre is currently approved before booking.
Other ways to meet the requirement
The English language requirement can also be met by:
Holding a degree taught in English (verified through Ecctis, formerly UK NARIC)
Being a national of a majority English-speaking country listed in Appendix English Language
Having previously met the requirement on an earlier UK visa application
When to take the test
Where a candidate has not yet passed the test, they should not be issued a CoS or have a visa application submitted until a valid certificate is in hand. Submitting the application without the certificate, or with the wrong certificate, leads to refusal and loss of the application fee, the IHS, and any priority fees paid.
If a candidate has a test booked, wait for the result before accepting the sponsorship offer and beginning the visa application process.
If a visa has been refused on English language grounds
The candidate will need to sit the correct test (IELTS for UKVI General Training, all four components) and a new application will need to be prepared and submitted. Application fees, IHS and priority fees from the refused application are not refundable.
The B2 requirement for ILR from 26 March 2027
From 26 March 2027, the English language requirement for settlement (ILR) will increase from B1 to B2. Workers approaching the five-year settlement window who only hold B1 evidence may need to sit a new test before applying for ILR. Identify any sponsored worker approaching settlement now and give them sufficient lead time to obtain B2 evidence.
Government guidance: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/knowledge-of-english