English Language Requirement For Partners Of British Citizen Or Resident From 29th Nov 2010

09 Nov 2010

With effect from 29^th November 2010, migrants from outside the European Economic Area (including Switzerland) who are spouse or partner of a British citizen or resident wishing to live in the UK need to prove that they can speak and understand English. 

To prove English language ability, any of the following to be mentioned:

• come from a majority English-speaking country; or
• pass an acceptable English language test approved by the UK Border Agency (UKBA); or
• have a degree taught in English which is accepted by the UKBA.

A Bachelors degree taught in English is determined by the approving authority to be equivalent to a UK Bachelor's degree will meet the English language requirements. The UKBA will not accept Master's degrees or PhD degrees taught in English as evidence of English ability because approving authority can only assess whether Bachelor's degrees were taught in English.