UK introduces new English language test for migrants
Monday, 29 November 2010
The UK government will introduce from today (Monday) a new language requirement -- speaking and understanding English -- for filing visa application for non-European migrants, reports BSS.
The migrants who apply for a visa to enter or remain in the UK as a partner or spouse of a British citizen or person settled there, will need to show that they can speak and understand English up to a basic level. They will usually meet this requirement by passing an English language test with a UK Border Agency- approved test provider, said a press release issued on Sunday by the UK High Commission in Dhaka.
The list of approved test providers and further guidance are available on the UK Border Agency's website. Applicants need to pass the language test before they apply for a visa and submit an original test certificate with their visa application.
It is also possible to meet the English language requirement by having an academic qualification equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in the UK which was taught in English. Applicants will need to supply their original qualification certificate with their visa application.
The new language requirement is intended to help migrants integrate into British society -- to open up more opportunities, help prevent exploitation, and allow them to benefit from, and contribute more to their communities.
This English language requirement does not apply to visitors or the spouses and partners of those in the UK on a temporary visa, such as workers and students under the points based system.
The migrants who apply for a visa to enter or remain in the UK as a partner or spouse of a British citizen or person settled there, will need to show that they can speak and understand English up to a basic level. They will usually meet this requirement by passing an English language test with a UK Border Agency- approved test provider, said a press release issued on Sunday by the UK High Commission in Dhaka.
The list of approved test providers and further guidance are available on the UK Border Agency's website. Applicants need to pass the language test before they apply for a visa and submit an original test certificate with their visa application.
It is also possible to meet the English language requirement by having an academic qualification equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in the UK which was taught in English. Applicants will need to supply their original qualification certificate with their visa application.
The new language requirement is intended to help migrants integrate into British society -- to open up more opportunities, help prevent exploitation, and allow them to benefit from, and contribute more to their communities.
This English language requirement does not apply to visitors or the spouses and partners of those in the UK on a temporary visa, such as workers and students under the points based system.