Guide to IELTS for UKVI Work | Generated by AI
Question: How to take the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) exam to get a UK work visa?
Answer:
To obtain a UK work visa (such as the Skilled Worker visa, the main route for most employment-based work in the UK), you generally need to prove your English language proficiency. The “IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration” (commonly called IELTS for UKVI) is one of the approved Secure English Language Tests (SELTS) accepted by the UK Home Office.
Key Requirements for Work Visas (as of 2026)
- For most new Skilled Worker visa applications (and similar routes like Health and Care Worker, Scale-up, etc.) submitted on or after 8 January 2026, you need CEFR level B2 in all four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- This typically corresponds to an IELTS for UKVI score of at least 5.5 in each of the four components (not just overall).
- Before this date (or for extensions in some cases), the requirement was lower at CEFR B1 (IELTS for UKVI 4.0 in each component).
- The test must be the four-skills IELTS for UKVI (Academic or General Training version). IELTS Life Skills tests are not accepted for these work routes as they only cover speaking and listening.
Note: Some professions (e.g., nurses or doctors) may require higher scores for professional registration (separate from visa rules), such as IELTS 7.0 overall.
Steps to Take the IELTS for UKVI Exam
- Confirm your exact visa route and requirement — Check the official UK government website for your specific visa type, as rules can vary slightly.
- Choose the correct test type — Book IELTS for UKVI (not regular IELTS). The content and difficulty are identical to standard IELTS, but it includes extra security measures and a special Test Report Form accepted for UKVI purposes. You can choose:
- Academic (more suitable if your job involves academic-style reading/writing).
- General Training (more practical/workplace-focused; often preferred for immigration/work purposes).
- Find an approved test centre — Tests must be taken in person at an official IELTS for UKVI centre (online/home versions are not accepted for UKVI). Approved providers include British Council, IDP, and others. Use their websites to search for locations and dates (available in many countries, including Singapore).
- Register and book the test — Go to the official IELTS website (e.g., takeielts.britishcouncil.org or ielts.idp.com), select “IELTS for UKVI”, choose your location, and book a date. Provide accurate details and pay the fee (usually higher than regular IELTS due to security).
- Prepare for the test — Use official IELTS practice materials. The test covers:
- Listening (30 minutes)
- Reading (60 minutes)
- Writing (60 minutes)
- Speaking (11–14 minutes, face-to-face)
- Take the test — Bring valid ID (usually passport). Results are available in 3–13 days depending on format (paper or computer).
- Use your results for the visa — Include your Test Report Form number in your visa application. The certificate is valid for 2 years.
Alternatives to Taking IELTS
You may not need to take the test if:
- You are a citizen of a majority English-speaking country (e.g., Australia, Canada, USA, New Zealand).
- You have a degree taught in English (may need verification from ECCTIS).
- You meet other Home Office exemptions.
Always verify the latest rules directly on GOV.UK, as immigration policies can change.
References:
- GOV.UK - Skilled Worker visa: Knowledge of English
- Take IELTS - IELTS for UKVI
- DavidsonMorris - IELTS for UKVI Guide 2026
- IDP IELTS - Minimum IELTS score to work in the UK 2026