English tests clarification

[md3]

At the beginning of the spouse visa process we were given the information that English tests A1, A2 and B1 were valid for only two years each. This would mean a total cost of £450 for all three tests. I am now given to understand that the B1 test could be taken at the outset and used for FLR and ILR even after its expiry date, at a cost of only £150. Can anyone confirm this, and if correct, where can that information be found?

[CR001]

Yes, it is correct. HO accept B1 if it is an approved test AND from an approved test centre.

[md3]

Thank you CR001. I'm sure many who understood that the tests expire after two years and have unnecessarily taken and paid for all three tests will be very unhappy to know this.

You can use a B1 level qualification that’s run out if both of the following are true:

it’s on the current list of recognised tests
it was accepted for another UK immigration application, for example when you got permission to enter