The UK government will tighten language requirements for work visas, according to a report in the Times. Currently, work migrants must submit a score or test result equivalent to a B1 on the CEFR scale. Moving forward, they will likely be expected to submit a score or test result equivalent to B2 on that scale.
There are various ways to meet the language requirement at this time. For instance, the current requirement can be met by submitting an IELTS score with no band below 4.0. The new requirement will likely require that no band be below 5.5.
Those opting for the PTE test will likely see their score requirement jump from 43 to 59.
Remember, of course, that eventually the HOELT test will replace the aforementioned tests.
More details next week.