• UK now has a new English language proficiency tests requirements for Nigerians, others looking to relocate into the country
• The test is important for immigrants to demonstrate English proficiency to ensure effective integration into UK society and workforce
• Nigerians and other foreign students must pass the English test as a prerequisite for immigration

Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of experience covering Tech, Energy, Stocks, Investments, and Economy.

The United Kingdom has introduced two types of English language exams mandatory for Nigerians and for foreigners applying to relocate into the country.

In an updated announcement published on the UK government’s website on Monday, February 5, 2024, the requirements include reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills for various applicant categories.

Those affected include applicants like health and care workers, high-potential individuals, innovator founders, ministers of religion, scale-up workers, skilled workers, start-ups, and students.

The statements from the UK government website reads:

“There are 2 types of test as different immigration routes require different levels of English language ability.

“The test you will need to take depends on what you are applying for”

“For the following application routes, you will need to take a test that assesses your reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities: Health and Care Worker, High Potential Individual, Innovator Founder, Minister of Religion, Scale-up Worker, Skilled Worker, Start-up, and Student.”

It added that only speaking and listening abilities are prerequisites for citizenship, international sportsperson, parent, partner, Representative of an Overseas Business, and settlement.

“For the following application routes, you will need to take a test that assesses your speaking and listening abilities: citizenship, International Sportsperson, parent, partner, Representative of an Overseas Business, and settlement (also known as indefinite leave to remain),” it added.

“The level of test you will need, known as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level, will depend on the route you are applying for. To find out which level you need, see the specific guidance for your immigration route.”

Speaking about approved test providers, the UK government said:

“If you are in the UK, you can only take a SELT with one of the following providers: LanguageCert, Pearson, Trinity College London, and IELTS SELT Consortium.

“If you are outside of the UK, you can only take a SELT with one of the following providers: LanguageCert, Pearson, PSI Services (UK) Ltd – Skills for English (UKVI), and IELTS SELT Consortium.”

UK implements new visa application fees for Nigerians

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Nigerians looking to travel to the United Kingdom will pay new visa fees.

The UK home office announced that a visit visa to the United Kingdom for less than six months will now cost £115 (about N106,922) using the official exchange rate of N929.76/£.

The new fee represents a 15% increment compared to the price of £100(N92,970).

Source: Legit.ng