From today 29 November 2010, any non-European migrant who wants to enter or remain in the UK as the partner of a British citizen or a person settled here will need to show that they can speak and understand English, which allows them to cope with everyday life in the UK, by taking an English language test with one of our approved test providers.

You will need to meet the requirement if:

• you are a national of a country outside the European Economic Area and Switzerland; and  
• you are in a relationship with a British citizen or a person settled here; and 
• you want to apply to enter or remain in the UK as their husband, wife, civil partner, fiance(e), proposed civil partner, unmarried partner or same-sex partner

Anyone wishing to come to the UK as a partner will needs to demonstrate basic English at A1 level, the same level required for skilled workers admitted under Tier 2 of the points-based system.

They will need to provide evidence with their visa application that they have passed an English language test with one of our approved test providers.

Under the current rules, people applying for visas as partners must already meet a range of criteria before being allowed to enter the UK. All applicants must show that their marriage or partnership is genuine, and that they can support themselves financially.

The non-UK partner must apply for a settlement visa to come and live in the UK as a husband, wife, civil partner, unmarried partner or same-sex partner. When they have been in the UK for two years, and have passed the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK test, they can apply to the UK Border Agency for permission to remain in the UK indefinitely (indefinite leave to remain).

Further information

  Guidance for applicants on English language requirement for partners (144KB opens in new window)

  Settlement visa application guide