Immigration / Policy · 14 October 2025
UK raises English language requirements for economic migrants
The UK government introduced new rules requiring migrants in certain economic routes (Skilled Worker, HPI, Scale-Up visas) to meet B2 level English (equivalent to A-level), up from B1. These changes take effect January 8, 2026, and are designed to reduce immigration and strengthen integration. Officials estimate the policy may cut inflows by about 6,000 per year. Employers in health and social care warn it will worsen labour shortages.
Reported by Financial Times · How we write briefs