for an FLR(M) extension can i still use the A1 test?

[mmq2016]

Hi,

Hope someone can shed some light on this. My wife's initial 2.5 years will be coming to an end in December, I'm going to be applying for the FLR(M) extension via the priority service and have prepared all evidence and paperwork myself (don't want to be paying solicitors for nothing). I was just awaiting for an appointment to become available, when i heard yesterday, that apparently, we now need an A2 exam? I cannot find any official announcement on the GOV website

my wife's just completed the A1 exam (Aced it), as that would have been fine before but if it's true about needing an A2 exam, does this mean the A1 is useless now?

the government are trying to suck the money out of us from every possible angle!

thanks
Malik

[Casa]

A2 level English will be mandatory for FLR(M) extensions from October and A1 level will no longer be accepted.

Here's the confirmation you've been searching for:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new- ... mily-route

[mmq2016]

thanks,

I've already read that page, however, it was published in January and says
"The precise timing and further details will be confirmed by the Home Office in the next few weeks and published here on GOV.UK."

it's this confirmation i can't find anywhere, as it means it won't be in force until officially announced?

as my wife's visa is expiring 5dec, will i be OK applying earlier than the 28days? say end of septemeber?

[Casa]

Although the exact date hasn't yet been confirmed, an announcement with changes to the FLR(M) application form may well be made in time for the introduction in October. The majority of legal professionals appear to be advising this.
Also in addition to the passage you posted note:
The government recognises the need to give those affected sufficient time to prepare for the new test which is why the new requirement will not be implemented before October 2016. It will therefore not affect those required to apply for further leave to remain before then

Your wife can apply earlier than the 28 days prior to the expiry date on her current visa, but this will mean she will have to apply for an additional FLR(M) extension in 2.5 years time in order to make up the shortfall before ILR.

[mmq2016]

that's super info

thanks

guess we've no choice than to sit the A2 now, i'v heard its not much different to A1. My mrs Aced that, so this shouldn't be an issue...hopefully

[Casa]

If your wife sailed through the A1 test, she may want to kill two birds with one stone and aim straight for B1 level, avoiding having to take this for ILR.

[mmq2016]

aha, so they'll accept the B1 for FLR(M) extension? does this expire or can i use the same for the ILR application?

thanks