What’s Changing — B1 to B2 from January 2026
● From 8 January 2026, new applicants under certain work-visa routes — including: Skilled Worker visa, Scale-up visa, and High Potential Individual visa — will be required to demonstrate CEFR level B2 English (all four skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing).
The increase in English level requirements may also potentially
affect BNO visa holders.
● The previous requirement — CEFR level B1 — is being replaced for first-time applicants. B1 can be roughly compared to GCSE-level English, while B2 aligns more closely with A-level or upper-intermediate standard EnglishB1 was roughly equivalent to GCSE-level English; B2 is more like A-level / Upper-Intermediate standard.
● Applicants will need to take a Secure English Language Test (SELT) via a Home Office–approved provider to prove their English level.
Alternative evidence, such as degree qualifications taught in English, may also satisfy the requirement, provided they meet the Home Office’s verification and eligibility criteria.
Why the Government Is Doing This
The decision — part of broader immigration reforms — reflects the government’s view that newcomers should have stronger English skills to integrate better into UK society, workplaces, and communities.
In effect, the English bar is rising: what used to qualify under “intermediate” English now no longer meets the requirements for many visa pathways. This means many prospectiveapplicants who previously met the threshold may now need additional preparation.
Implications for Visa Applicants & Skilled Migrants
● Applicants who previously relied on B1-level English will need to re-evaluate whether their English is strong enough for B2 — not just conversational, but competent across
all four skills.
● Preparation and passing of a SELT, or an equivalent recognised qualification,
becomes essential.
● For people still at B1 or lower, there is higher risk of rejection — unless they improve
their English proficiency.
● Timing matters: anyone applying from 8 January 2026 onwards under those visa routes needs to meet B2. Extensions for existing visa holders (who obtained leave under B1) seem to be exempt — but that exception only applies to extensions, not new applications.
In short:
The UK now expects a stronger level of English from migrants on skilled or work-based visas.
How Sincere Immigration Can Help — Tailored English B1 → B2 Training
Given this higher bar, many applicants now need structured, results-driven training to meet B2-level English. That’s where Sincere Immigration comes in.
What Sincere Immigration Offers
● Expertise & Qualified Tutors — Our tutors are ESL-certified, with specialisation in English as a Second Language, and have logged 1000+ hours of teaching across diverse global students. Some work closely with immigration-law specialists. Some are also qualified immigration lawyers (or work closely with legal experts), offering extra insight into what UK immigration authorities expect.
(For details about our tutor profiles, please check out the images below)
● Custom-Built Training Plans — Rather than generic English classes, we design a tailor-made syllabus aligned to your starting level, target visa route, timeline (such as applying before January 2026), and personal strengths/weaknesses.
● Full Coverage of All Skills — Since B2 requirement covers listening, reading, writing, and speaking, our training gives balanced attention to each skill — including
professional-level speaking & writing practice, as well as exam / SELT-style mock tests.
● Exam-Focused Prep & SELT Readiness — We prepare you to confidently sit the English test from a Home Office-approved SELT provider ; We prepare you for the specific tests accepted by UK Visas & Immigration, including Secure English Language Tests (SELT), ensuring you meet all criteria (fluency, comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, etc.).
● Flexible Scheduling & Support — Recognising many applicants work or study full-time, we offer flexible lessons and can adjust pace depending on how quickly you need to reach B2.
Final Thoughts:
Act Now to Meet the New English Standard
The UK’s shift from B1 to B2 for key visa routes marks a major tightening of English language expectations for immigrants. For many, this change will require serious preparation — not just basic conversational ability, but confident, fluent English across all four skills.
If you’re planning a visa application under the relevant routes, it’s now more important than ever to start working toward B2 — ideally with expert guidance. Sincere Immigration’s tailored training offers one of the most effective paths to get you there: personalised syllabus, experienced tutors, and a focus on passing the tests that matter.
