For foreigners: UK announces 4 English test exemptions

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- The UK government updated its English language exemption rules for settlement applicants on August 3, 2026

- Four categories of applicants can be exempted, including those aged 65 or over and those under 18

- Applicants under the HM Armed Forces route face a separate but similar set of exemption conditions

The United Kingdom (UK) government has published updated guidelines outlining four categories of foreign nationals who are exempt from meeting English language requirements when applying for settlement in the country.

The exemptions were published on the official UK government website, with the latest update dated August 3, 2026.

Who qualifies for an English test exemption?

Under the updated rules, a settlement applicant is exempt from the English language requirement if, at the time of application;

- they are aged 65 or over.

- Aged under 18.

- They have a physical or mental disability that prevents them from satisfying the requirement.

- A fourth exemption applies to those applying for settlement as a partner, parent, or dependent child aged over 18, provided they meet a specific set of conditions. Such applicants must have spent a continuous period of at least 15 years in the UK on permission and must hold an English language speaking and listening qualification at A2 CEFR, ESOL Entry Level 2, or Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Level 3.

Additionally, they must obtain written confirmation from a qualified English teacher that they attended at least 75 guided learning hours of English language classes in the 12 months preceding their application, with unsupervised study and preparation time excluded from that count.

The required proficiency threshold under that confirmation differs depending on when the application is made. For applications submitted before March 26, 2027, the teacher must confirm that the applicant is unlikely to reach B1 level through further study. For applications on or after that date, the teacher must state that the applicant is unlikely to attain B2 level.

What are the rules for HM Armed Forces applicants?

A distinct but closely related framework governs applicants seeking entry clearance or permission to stay under Appendix HM Armed Forces.

That category also exempts those aged 65 or over and those under 18, as well as individuals with a qualifying disability.

However, the armed forces route includes an additional ground for exemption not available under the standard settlement pathway: exceptional circumstances that prevent an applicant from meeting the English language requirement.

The rules do not define what constitutes exceptional circumstances, leaving that determination to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

The updated guidance is part of the UK's broader immigration framework, which requires most applicants seeking long-term residence to demonstrate English language proficiency before settlement is granted.

Which nationalities are exempted from English test?

In related news, the UK government listed19 nationalities exempt from the English language test required for citizenship applications.

This development significantly impacts individuals from various countries, particularly those where English is commonly spoken but does not guarantee exemption.

For many hopeful applicants, understanding these requirements is crucial, as failing to meet the necessary language proficiency could hinder their dreams of settling in the UK.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.