Non-EEA English language requirement - spouse visa

[MattR18]

Good afternoon.

I was hoping you could please provide some quick advice on the 'proof of language' requirement for my non-EEA wife who will shortly be applying for a spouse visa to join me in the UK.

I understand that she is required to take and pass the A1 English test now, followed by the A2 at the end of the 2.5 year period, and B1 to apply for indefinite leave to remain after 5 years.

However, as my wife is already a fluent English speaker, can she take and sit the B1 test straightaway?

Rather than having to take the three test individually over the five year period. She will have absolutely no trouble passing it, I'm just unsure (and cannot find guidance anywhere despite hours of searching) whether she actually has to pass all three separately in turn, even if she can pass the most difficult one now.

I'm also not sure how long the B1 test 'pass' would be valid for - i.e. if she takes and passes it now, will it still be valid in 5 years time?

Many thanks,
Matt

[CR001]

Yes she can take B1. However you will need to check the requirements at each stage as they do change.