English language for spouses of UK citizens: A1, A2 or B1?
When you are applying for your 1 st Spouse visa, you need the most basic A1 level. This is true whether you are applying outside the UK or switching from another category inside the UK. After the 1 st Spouse visa you will need an extension. At this stage, after 2.5 years in the UK, you will need A2 level. After that you could normally apply for a permanent visa, known as Indefinite Leave to Remain. This is where an even higher B1 level would be needed. If you chose to have a FiancĂ©e visa first, you need A1 level for this and then again A1 level when you get married and apply for your 1 st Spouse visa. In this case you meet the A1 rule automatically. Then you need A2 at extension and B1 at the permanent visa stage. The rules for Unmarried Partners are the same as for spouses. We also have a very good post earlier on the confusion between A1 and B1 level when applying for “settlement” , as many spouses applying outside the UK are...