English Language Test Under The Points Based System

The new Points Based System for migration to the UK will commence in early 2008. The PBS will be introduced on a phased basis. Tier 1, attracting highly skilled migrants to the UK, will be the first phase to begin operations in the first quarter of 2008.

One of the requirements of the PBS will be that, in most cases, migrants coming to the UK to take up skilled or highly skilled employment must be able to evidence that they have an “acceptable standard of English”. One way of demonstrating that applicants have an acceptable standard of English will be to pass an English language test based on listening, speaking, writing and reading skills.

It is unclear at this time whether applicants coming to the UK to take up skilled or highly skilled employment from English-speaking countries or applicants who have attended English-speaking schools will be required to sit a test.

The Home Office is currently inviting providers of English language tests to apply for their tests to be assessed according to the required standards. Providers must do so by 30 November 2007. Following this date we expect to have a better understanding of what the requirements for evidencing an acceptable standard of English language will be.