Migrants will need to speak English to a higher standard if they
wish to stay permanently in the UK, under landmark reforms
introduced tomorrow.
They are being given a full year's notice to prepare – giving
them the best opportunity to integrate into British
life.
The change marks the first delivery moment of the government's
Earned Settlement reforms – designed to reward those who
contribute, integrate and play by the rules.
Since January, applicants for most work visas have been required
to meet the higher A level standard in reading, writing, speaking
and listening. Most foreign nationals applying for settlement
must now meet the new A-level equivalent standard, raised from
the current GCSE level.
It takes an estimated 200 hours of learning to move between the
two levels, which must be proved by a test with a Home
Office-approved provider.
The move comes as Home Secretary will introduce new
legislation this week to restore order and control to our
borders. She will make a speech tomorrow at the IPPR think tank
outlining how these reforms are in line with her British
values.
Home Secretary said:
Migration will always be a vital part of Britain's story, but the
public rightly expect those who come here to integrate,
contribute and share our British values.
Fluency in English is the single easiest path to integration and
contribution. It is how you find work, support your family, and
play a full part in British life.
Work hard, learn the language, and contribute to your community.
That is the contract we are now writing into law.
The change will be introduced through an Immigration Rules change
tomorrow (5 March) and come into effect in March
2027.
Last November, the government began a public consultation on its
Earned Settlement reforms. This will see the standard qualifying
period for settlement double to 10 years for most migrants – with
reductions for those making a positive contribution to Britain's
economy and society.
Under the Earned Settlement reforms, skilled frontline public
service workers such as doctors and nurses may be able to settle
after 5 years – with high earners and entrepreneurs fast-tracked
to just 3.
The government received more than 200,000 responses to the
consultation, which closed in February. Those responses are being
considered carefully before further reforms are brought forward.
