From 29 November 2010, any person who wants to enter or remain in the UK as the spouse or partner of a British citizen or a person settled here will need to show that they can speak and understand English.

If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country or do not have a degree taught in English you will need to pass an acceptable English language test with one of our approved test providers. http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/new-approved-english-tests.pdf

What is a majority English-speaking country?

If you are a national of one of the countries listed below, you will not need to take a test.

Degrees taught in English

If you have a degree taught in English that was taught in the UK, you will not need to take a test. Furthermore, if you have a degree taught in English that is recognised by UKNARIC and is at the appropriate level, you will not need to take a test.

Exemptions

Applicants will not need to meet the English language requirement if they provide satisfactory evidence to demonstrate one of the following:

• aged 65 or over at the time they make their application
• physical or mental condition that would prevent them from meeting the requirement
• exceptional compassionate circumstances that would prevent the applicant from meeting the requirement