In May earlier this year, the Labour government issued a White Paper called “Restoring Control over the Immigration System” which showcased a comprehensive reform of the UK immigration system. The intention behind the Immigration White Paper was to outline the government’s strategy for immigration, including measures to reduce net migration and address perceived abuses within the system, whilst allowing the UK to remain open to international talent that will continue to enhance economic growth, thus encouraging positive immigration.
Following the White Paper, the Home Office published the Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules (HC 997), effective on 22 July 2025, and subsequently the Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules (HC 1333), effective on 14 October 2025, which introduced a wide range of ongoing reforms to the Immigration Rules. A key part of these changes involves tougher English language requirements and an emphasis on skilled worker migrants to be educated to a degree level.
The reason for change
The Labour government, throughout all their immigration reforms, have highlighted the need for immigration that can fill skills gaps. The government have now enforced several measures to meet goals of curbing immigration, improving migrant integration and social cohesion.
What changes that have been introduced?
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English language B2 Level requirement (changing from B1 to B2 Level)
From the 8th of January 2026, skilled worker migrants will be required to pass B2 Level (equivalent to A-Level) English tests to gain entry into the UK. The Secure English Language Tests must be conducted through secure Home Office providers. As a part of this, HPIs must also meet the new strict English language requirements.
B2 Level English is similar to A-Level English (speaking, writing, listening and reading). Before, migrants with only B1 level skills were accepted in the UK – which constituted GCSE level ability.
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Dependants to meet an A1 level of English language
Following UK immigration changes in HC 997, dependants of visa holders will be required to meet the A1 level standard of English, which is a basic level of communication. Dependants include those who are looking to come to the UK alongside a main applicant, such as anyone on a skilled worker visa.
Beyond the initial entry clearance into the UK, for visa extensions, dependants will need to meet the A2 requirements and B2 levels for indefinite leave to remain.
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Skilled workers to meet RQF 6 level or above
According to HC 997, reforms have been brought in for skilled worker visas, so that now, only those at degree level or RQF 6 or above can come to the UK.
This change means that job holders must meet a degree level standard and that their job posts must correspond with this by clearly reflecting the higher skill level required for the role.
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ILR English language requirements
The HC 1333 states that if a partner or parent cannot meet the English language requirements established in Appendix KoLL, they will be allowed to stay for a maximum of 30 months and subject to no recourse to public funds.
By introducing the significant changes as mentioned above, this will in turn raise the English language standards for migrants coming to the UK. As these reforms aim to control mass migration and focus on bringing migrants with a higher level of skill sets to the UK, it is hoped by the government that immigration can be used to encourage economic growth.