IELTS for UKVI Life Skills: English certification accepted for a partner or spouse visa in the United Kingdom
- rafmarybaker
- Nov 10
- 2 min read
In an earlier post, we discussed English tests for immigration purposes, highlighting IELTS as one of the most widely recognised options internationally. If you are looking to apply for a partner or spouse visa in the UK, you will need to take a special version of the test called IELTS for UKVI Life Skills.
What is the IELTS for UKVI Life Skills?
The IELTS for UKVI Life Skills is the official test that allows you to certify your English level for certain UK visas, such as the partner or spouse visa. Unlike the IELTS Academic or General Training tests, this exam focuses on the essential communication skills needed for everyday life, helping you to function successfully in an English-speaking country.
The test is aligned with the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), and for a spouse visa, a minimum level of A1 or A2 is usually required, depending on your circumstances.
If you are looking for immigration advice, you can schedule a consultation with our legal immigration specialist, Rafmary Baker, here.
What skills does this test assess?
The IELTS for UKVI Life Skills test focuses on two key skills:
Speaking – your ability to communicate in short conversations.
Listening – your ability to understand information in spoken English.
The test is based on real-life situations, so everything you practice will be useful beyond the exam. Some of the most common topics include:
Introducing yourself and sharing personal experiences
Family, friends, and relationships
Shopping and basic transactions
Work and employment
Health and well-being
Leisure and free-time activities
Education and training
Transport and getting around
Housing and home life
Weather and climate
After taking the test, you will receive one of the following results: PASS or FAIL.
You need a PASS certificate to meet the English language requirement for your family, spouse, or partner visa application.
Need help with your preparation?
At Cambridge Business Online Centre, we don't just guide you through your visa application—we also prepare you to succeed in the exam and obtain the English certification required to continue your immigration process.
Our English preparation course for immigration purposes includes:
✅ Full coverage of the IELTS exam with extensive practice questions and answers.
✅ A personalised study plan tailored to your needs.
✅ Class summaries and notes to reinforce your learning.
✅ One-on-one sessions with your tutor and weekly live lessons.
✅ Chapter quizzes, progress tests, and a final mock exam.
Benefits of completing the course:
Certificate of course completion
Access to our alumni community
Guidance and support to book your IELTS exam at your nearest approved centre (optional)
Are you ready to take the next step?
Start your application for the IELTS preparation course HERE.
If you would like more information about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us at hello@cambridgebusinessonline.com.
Comments