What level of English is required for ILR?
What level of English is required for ILR?
B1 standard
The English language test that is required for an Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application in 2019 is the B1 standard of the CEFR (or higher) in speaking and listening. This must be a Secure English Language Test (SELT) that is approved by the Home Office.
Do I need English test for ILR?
If you are aged 18 to 65 years old and want to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain or British citizenship, you must prove that you meet the English language and life in the UK test requirements. To do this you must attend an approved language test centre. A list of approved centres is available on Gov.uk.
What are the requirements for indefinite leave to remain?
Required Documents for Indefinite Leave to Remain
- A passport or other valid travel document.
- Information which details periods of absence.
- Proof of English language ability (if applicable)
- Life in the UK test information.
- A Biometric Residence Permit (if one has been issued to you)
- Accommodation information.
Who is exempt from a1 English test?
Only applicants above the age of 18 and under the age of 65 are subject to testing. If an applicant has a degree, masters or PhD taught or researched in English, this will usually exclude them from the requirement. Nationals from listed countries that predominantly speak English are also exempt.
What English test do I need for citizenship?
The required British citizenship English language test in 2019 is the B1 standard test of the CEFR. This test must be on the Home Office approved Secure English language test list (which can be found here) and is required for British naturalisation applications.
What language test do I need for citizenship?
| Test | Results |
|---|---|
| Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program – General Test (CELPIP-G) or General (Listening and Speaking) Test (CELPIP-G LS) | 4 or higher (up to 12) in listening and speaking |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) training test | 4.0 or higher in speaking and 4.5 or higher in listening |
Can I apply for ILR 28 days before 5 years?
It is possible to submit your ILR application up to 28 days before the end of your qualifying period. If you apply earlier, you will not be eligible and your application is likely to be refused.
Who is exempt from taking English language requirement?
The applicant is exempt from the English language requirement if they are aged 65 or over at the date of application. Acceptable evidence of age includes that in a passport or travel document.
Can I do B1 instead of A2?
The form will ask for A2 but B1 is acceptable as it is a higher level than A2. There is no specific ‘link or rule’ that states this. Many members have had success using B1 for FLR(M) extension.
How long is B1 English test valid for?
two years
The English language test results are valid for two years.
Is GCSE English enough for British citizenship?
Yes. Although an English language GCSE is considered to be above B1, it does not test speaking and listening skills. Perhaps this is the reason the Home Office does not accept it as a valid qualification.