UK Spouse and Marriage Visa English language requirement 2020

Article 8 of the European Convention in UK

Speak the same language with your spouse

If everything is clear with the purity of reputation and, as a rule, there are no difficulties, then knowledge of the language can become a real obstacle to obtaining a visa for a wife to the UK. Even after many months of informal communication, the knowledge of the language of a foreign spouse can really “limp”. Therefore, you should take care of preparing for the English language test. The A1 level is sufficient for a visa. However, it is rational to immediately pass to a higher level-B1, so as not to pass it later when obtaining permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and citizenship.

All UK Marriage and Spouse visa applicants will meet the English language requirement if they are a national of any of the following countries:

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

This is because they are a national of a Home Office-designated majority English-speaking country.