The UK Government has recently announced that there will be a new English language requirement for those applying for a visa extension application under the family route as a non-EEA national partner or parent.
This means that to apply for an extension application after completing 2.5 years in the UK on the 5 year parent or partner route, you will need to pass a speaking and listening test at Level A2 CEFR. This is a higher level than the current requirement that you pass a test at Level A1.
Those applying for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) will still need to pass a test at Level B1 as well as passing the Life in the UK Test.
Alternatively, you will still be able to show that you have a certain qualification (such as a UK Bachelors or Masters degree or equivalent) at the required level or are the national of a majority English speaking country (as recognised by the Home Office).
The Home Office has accepted that it may take time for individuals to increase their level of English so has confirmed that these planned changes will not take place until October 2016. All applications made prior to this will still be able to use a Level A1 test.
It is also worth remembering that there are only certain English language tests that will be accepted by the Home Office so it is important to make sure that you sit the correct one.
If you would like any advice or further information on this new requirement or making an application under the family route then please contact a member of our Immigration Teams in Edinburgh and Glasgow.