UK rolls out tougher English proficiency test for migrants under stricter visa rules

Students planning to study in the UK will now have to work harder to get the doors opened. Further cracking down on the immigrants, the United Kingdom has introduced a tougher English language proficiency test.

Under a new law introduced in the Parliament on October 14, migrants applying for UK visas will be required to pass the Secure English Language Test (SELT) with an A-level proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The test must be conducted with a Home Office-approved provider, and the results will be verified during the visa application process.

Students along with health care workers, High Potential Individual (HPI), innovator founders, and skilled workers will need to take the test for all four abilities. They can take the SELT with one of the following providers: Pearson, PSI Services (UK) Ltd, IELTS SELT Consortium, or LANGUAGECERT.

“This country has always welcomed those who come to this country and contribute. But it is unacceptable for migrants to come here without learning our language, unable to contribute to our national life. If you come to this country, you must learn our language and play your part,” said UK home secretary Shabana Mahmood.

Also read Study in US: Trump govt proposes 15% cap on foreign student intake, 5% per country

The move forms part of the government’s immigration plan of tightening border control while attracting global talent, said the government. Among other changes are shortening the Graduate Route visa period to 18 months, 32% hike in Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) paid by employers for sponsoring foreign workers, higher finance requirements.