UK to Enforce Stricter English Tests and Higher Costs for Skilled Visa Applicants
The UK will enforce tougher English language tests and higher visa costs for skilled migrants from 2026. Here’s what applicants and students need to know about the new rules and how to prepare.
The United Kingdom is tightening its visa rules once again. Starting January 8, 2026, anyone applying for a skilled worker visa will need to clear a B2-level Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by the Home Office. The goal, according to officials, is to ensure that migrants can communicate clearly in English, whether that’s in professional discussions or daily interactions.
Why This Change Is Important
Until now, the language requirement for skilled migrants was relatively flexible. But the new B2 benchmark means applicants must demonstrate upper-intermediate proficiency being able to understand complex sentences, express opinions clearly, and follow detailed conversations.
The government has framed this shift as part of a broader effort to strengthen integration and raise the quality of incoming talent. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that speaking English well is key to both workplace success and community participation.
Visa Costs Are Going Up Too
Language isn’t the only area seeing change. The Immigration Skills Charge, which employers pay when they hire a foreign worker, will rise by about 32%. Larger organizations will now owe £1,320 per employee per year, up from £1,000, while smaller businesses and charities will pay £480, up from £364.
For students, living cost requirements are also climbing. From 2025–26, international students studying in London will need to show £1,529 per month, and those outside the capital must show £1,171 per month to prove they can support themselves.
Graduate Visa Timeline Shortens
One of the most notable updates affects international students looking to stay and work after graduation. From January 1, 2027, non-PhD graduates will have 18 months instead of two years to find a suitable job. PhD graduates will continue to receive three years.
What This Really Means
The UK wants migrants who can hit the ground running/ linguistically, financially, and professionally. For prospective applicants, that means preparing early, budgeting more carefully, and investing time in improving English proficiency before applying.
The message is clear: the UK is raising the bar, and only those ready to meet it will make the cut.
