We've now posted the Common European Framework Reference (CEFR) levels information and TOEIC test score equivalencies as promised in my previous post. To help you understand what is now required, here is a brief summary of minimum TOEIC scores needed for different types of immigration to the United Kingdom, as well as a summary of some of the relevant UK visa changes made over the past year.

Up until November 2010 spouses and partners of individuals applying to come to the United Kingdom as immigrants or students did not have to prove English proficiency. Now they must.

In addition, as of April 2011, the UK tightened its "general" Tier 1 visa category that had allowed certain skilled workers to immigrate to the country without a job offer. Tier 1 status now only includes individuals with "exceptional talent" (typically world-class artists and the like) for whom there are 1,000 spots, plus investors and entrepreneurs able to invest large amounts in UK business.

Most individuals must therefore apply to immigrate under "Tier 2" status, as skilled workers who already have a job offer in the UK or who are transferring to a UK position for their work within a multinational company. There is also a separate Tier 2 category for ministers and other religious workers.

Individuals coming to the United Kingdom to study rather than immigrate permanently would apply for "Tier 4" visas. (There is not currently any "Tier 3" visa category.)

Here are the different TOEIC test minimums for different types of UK visa applicants:

• Spouses and partners currently need to reach an"A1" CERF level in English listening and speaking skills. This is equivalent to earning at least a 50 on the TOEIC Speaking test and 60 on the listening section of the TOEIC Listening & Reading test (no specific minimums exist for writing or reading). Beginning in October 2013, the level required for such adult family members to demonstrate for speaking and listening skills will increase to a "B1" level.
   
• Tier 4 student visa applicants who are pursuing nondegree study (including English language study, foundation, or preacademic programs) need to achieve a "B1" CERF level in all English skill areas. The equivalent would be a minimums of 275 on the TOEIC Listening test, 275 on the TOEIC Reading test, 120 on the TOEIC Speaking test, and 120 on the TOEIC Writing test.
   
• Tier 4 degree-seeking students must achieve a higher "B2" CERF level, which is equivalent to 400 on the TOEIC Listening test, 385 on the TOEIC Reading test, 160 on the TOEIC Speaking test, and 150 on the TOEIC Writing test.
   
• Tier 2 general skilled worker visa applicants must achieve the same "B1" CERF level as nondegree students and thus the same TOEIC scores of 275 on the TOEIC Listening test, 275 on the TOEIC Reading test, 120 on the TOEIC Speaking test, and 120 on the TOEIC Writing test. An exception is that Tier 2 minister and religious worker visa applicants must achieve a higher "B2" CERF level with minimums the same as degree-seeking students.
    
• Tier 1 visa applicants must achieve a "C1" CERF level, meaning that on TOEIC tests they would need to earn at least a 490 Listening test score, 455 Reading test score, 200 on the Speaking test, and 200 on the Writing test.

Please note that I am not by any stretch of the imagination an expert on UK visas, that this is a very brief and broad summary not detailing exceptions and other options related to English language proficiency requirements. Also of course UK visa regulations are subject to continuing change.

For the most complete and up-to-date information, please visit the UK Border Agency Web site. For expert advice and information on steps and strategies for immigration, please consult an immigration attorney knowledgeable about UK immigration law. (We cannot recommend particular law firms.)

—Lia Nigro, TOEIC USA Team