Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, with reference to paragraph 5.60 of the policy paper entitled Explanatory memorandum to the statement of changes in the Immigration Rules: HC 1691, published on 5 March 2026, whether B2 level English language is required for applicants on the family visa route.

The changes to the English language requirements announced on 5 March 2026 will apply to individuals who are applying for settlement based on their family life, with effect from 26 March 2027. It is reasonable and proportionate that we give those already on a pathway to settlement 12 months to undertake the necessary learning.

This does not affect individuals who are applying for temporary permission to stay in the UK based on their family life.

The requirement to achieve B2 level English is equivalent to an A-level in a foreign language and evidences the ability to hold a conversation in English with a strong degree of fluency.

Being able to communicate effectively in English is vital for integration, enabling people to make a meaningful contribution to their communities. We think this is a reasonable and realistic expectation.