UK Introduces New English Language Requirement for Visa Applicants Starting April 2025

If you are preparing your UK visa or citizenship application, there’s important news that can simplify your journey. Starting in April 2025, the UK Home Office will expand the list of accepted Secure English Language Tests (SELT).

This update opens new opportunities for visa applicants worldwide. Here’s your comprehensive guide to the changes, valid tests, and tips for a successful application.

What’s the Big Change?

The UK government has officially added new SELT formats from LANGUAGECERT and reaffirmed its collaboration with providers like Pearson, Trinity College London, IELTS SELT Consortium, and PSI Services (UK) Ltd – Skills for English.

This update is crucial for applicants needing to prove their English proficiency through secure, verified assessments that meet immigration requirements. Beginning January 1, 2025, the old LANGUAGECERT ESOL SELT 4-skills test will be replaced with:

• LANGUAGECERT Academic SELT
• LANGUAGECERT General SELT

If you have already taken the previous test, don’t worry. Your results will remain valid for two years from the award date. Additionally, vouchers for the ESOL SELT test can be used for 12 months after purchase.

Who Needs to Take an English Language Test?

English language proficiency is essential for various visa categories, which are divided into two groups based on the skills tested:

1. Full 4-Skills Test Required (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening):

• Skilled Worker
• Health and Care Worker
• Start-up / Innovator Founder
• Student Visa
• High-Potential Individual
• Minister of Religion
• Scale-up Worker
• Temporary Work – International Agreement
• Student education loans

2. Speaking and Listening Only:

• UK Citizenship
• Partner / Parent Visa
• International Sportsperson
• Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
• Representative of an Overseas Business

Where and How to Take Your Tests

If You’re in the UK:

You can book a test with one of these approved providers:

• Pearson
• Trinity College London
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• LANGUAGECERT

If You’re Outside the UK:

Your SELT options include:

• Pearson
• PSI Services (Skills for English UKVI)
• IELTS SELT Consortium
• LANGUAGECERT

Make sure your test is taken at an approved location listed on the Home Office’s approved test list. Additionally, your test must be completed within two years of your visa application.

Booking the SELT English Language Test in 2025

To book your test, visit the website of your chosen SELT provider. You can typically find test availability within 28 days, although slots may vary by location. Remember, your booking details must match your identity documents, such as your passport or biometric residence permit.

Accepted Identity Documents Include:

• Passport
• UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
• Biometric Residence Card
• EEA National ID Card
• Valid Government-issued Photo ID (for tests outside the UK)
• Emergency travel documents and photocopies are not accepted.

After the Test—What’s Next?

Once you pass your test, you will receive a SELT unique reference number. You must include this number in your visa or nationality application. The reference codes vary by provider:

• Trinity College London: UER
• IELTS SELT Consortium: UKVI number
• LANGUAGECERT: Candidate URN
• Pearson: SELT URN
• PSI Skills for English: URN

You do not need to submit physical test certificates. The Home Office will verify your results directly using these reference codes.

By understanding these changes and preparing accordingly, you can navigate the UK visa application process with greater ease. Ensure you stay updated and choose the correct test to meet your application needs.