B2 English needed for Skilled Worker settlement from 26 March 2027
Published Checked by Edward Owusu
At a glance
What changed
The English level for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) goes up from B1 to B2 on many routes, including Skilled Worker. Skilled Workers will have to show B2 at the settlement stage, even though the route did not test English again at settlement before. The same B2 level applies to partners and children aged 18 or over settling as dependants of a Skilled Worker, and to the general knowledge of language rules in Appendix KoLL.
Who it affects
People on a Skilled Worker or Health and Care Worker visa, and their dependent partners and adult children, who apply for settlement on or after 26 March 2027. The government says the change applies to people already on a path to settlement.
When it starts
It applies to settlement applications made on or after 26 March 2027.
What it does not change
Settlement applications made before 26 March 2027 stay at the B1 level. Exemptions in the Immigration Rules still apply. This change is law and is separate from the earned settlement proposals, which are not law.