Complete Guide to English Language Requirements for ILR

English Language Requirements for ILR

Meeting the English language requirement is a mandatory component of most Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) applications in the UK. This requirement ensures that those settling permanently in the country have sufficient language skills to integrate into British society and participate effectively in daily life.

However, navigating the specific requirements, understanding which tests are accepted, and determining if you qualify for any exemptions can be challenging. This article explains everything you need to know about the English language requirements for ILR applications. It covers everything including accepted tests, required proficiency levels, documentation, and exemptions.

The Required English Language Level for ILR

For Indefinite Leave to Remain applications, you must demonstrate English language proficiency at a minimum of level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is considered an intermediate level where you can:

• Understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar matters
• Deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling
• Produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest
• Describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions
• Briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans

The B1 level requirement applies to both speaking and listening skills for most ILR applications. However, some applicants may need to demonstrate reading and writing skills as well, depending on their visa category and circumstances.

🔗 Check out our complete guide to the ILR requirements

Approved English Language Tests for ILR

The Home Office only accepts English language tests from approved providers that are included on their Secure English Language Tests (SELT) list. As of 2025, the following test providers are approved for ILR applications:

IELTS for UKVI

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for UKVI is one of the most widely recognized tests. For ILR, you need:

• IELTS for UKVI (Academic or General Training): Score of at least 4.0 in each component (speaking, listening, reading, and writing)
• Test must be taken at an approved IELTS SELT Consortium test center
• Results must be verified using the IELTS verification service

LanguageCert

LanguageCert offers several approved tests for ILR:

• LanguageCert International ESOL SELT B1: Pass in both speaking & listening modules
• Test must be taken at an approved LanguageCert test center
• Results must be verified using the LanguageCert verification service

Pearson

Pearson PTE offers approved tests for ILR:

• Pearson PTE Academic UKVI: Score of at least 36 in each component
• Test must be taken at an approved Pearson test center
• Results must be verified using the Pearson verification service

Trinity College London

When planning your English language test for ILR:

• Tests are typically valid for 2 years from the date of the test
• Your test must be valid on the date of your ILR application
• Book your test well in advance, as popular test centers often have waiting lists
• Allow time for potential retests if needed
• Ensure you receive your results before your ILR application deadline

Alternative Ways to Meet the English Language Requirement

Besides taking an approved English language test, there are other ways to satisfy the English language requirement for ILR:

Degrees Taught in English

If you have completed a degree taught in English, you may be exempt from taking an English language test. To qualify:

• The degree must be academic (not vocational or professional)
• It must be equivalent to at least a UK bachelor’s degree
• It must have been taught in English
• You must provide either:
  • A UK NARIC (now ENIC) statement confirming the degree is equivalent to a UK qualification and was taught in English
  • Original degree certificate and transcript
  • Letter from the institution confirming the degree was taught in English

Nationals of Majority English-Speaking Countries

You automatically meet the English language requirement if you’re a national of one of these countries:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Australia
• The Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belize
• Canada
• Dominica
• Grenada
• Guyana
• Jamaica
• Malta
• New Zealand
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Lucia
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United States of America

You’ll need to provide your valid passport as evidence of nationality.

Check out the Home Office list of majority English-speaking countries

Exemptions from the English Language Requirement

Some applicants are exempt from the English language requirement:

Age-Based Exemptions

• Applicants under 18 years old
• Applicants aged 65 or over

Medical Exemptions

You may be exempt if you have a physical or mental condition that prevents you from meeting the requirement. You’ll need to provide:

• A completed exemption form
• Supporting medical evidence from a doctor or healthcare professional
• Details of how your condition affects your ability to learn or take an English test

Exceptional Circumstances

In rare cases, the Home Office may grant exemptions based on exceptional circumstances, such as:

• Living in a remote area with no access to English language teaching or testing
• Being unable to access English language learning due to conflict or persecution

These exemptions are granted on a case-by-case basis and require substantial evidence.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

Test Booking Problems

If you encounter difficulties booking your test:

• Book several months in advance, especially in busy locations
• Consider traveling to alternative test centers if local ones are fully booked
• Contact the test provider directly if you experience technical issues
• Keep proof of booking attempts if delays might affect your ILR application timeline

Failed Tests

If you don’t achieve the required score:

• Review your test results to identify weak areas
• Focus your preparation on improving those specific skills
• Consider professional language coaching
• Book a retest as soon as possible
• Allow sufficient time before your ILR application deadline

Documentation Issues

If you have problems with your test certificate or verification:

• Contact the test provider immediately
• Request a letter confirming your results if there are delays with certificates
• Keep all emails and correspondence regarding your test
• Consider taking an alternative approved test if issues cannot be resolved quickly

In conclusion

Meeting the English language requirement is a crucial step in your journey to obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK. By understanding which tests are accepted, what level you need to achieve, and whether you qualify for any exemptions, you can approach this requirement with confidence.

Remember to book your test well in advance, prepare thoroughly, and ensure your certificate will be valid when you submit your ILR application. If you’re using an alternative qualification or claiming an exemption, gather comprehensive supporting evidence to strengthen your application.