UK family & settlement: choose by application stage

Joining family or extending a family visa

For a first family visa application where a test is required, GOV.UK specifies at least A1. For an extension after 2.5 years following an A1 result, the rule normally requires at least A2 in speaking and listening. The same guidance explains exemptions and when an existing higher-level result can be reused.

Read the rules for your own family route. Do not assume that a dependant application under a work visa has the same English requirement as the family visa route.

You do not have to purchase A1, then A2, then B1 as a fixed package. GOV.UK permits a higher-level test for the first family application and sets conditions for reusing higher-level evidence. Choose from the rule and your actual evidence history, not a sales bundle.

Settlement and citizenship are separate applications

The GOV.UK English-language overview introduces settlement and citizenship evidence. For settlement, also read the rule for the exact route and date: Appendix KoLL changes its test-based speaking-and-listening threshold from B1 to B2 for applications on or after 26 March 2027. Other settlement route rules also contain the dated change.

PTE Home stops at B1. If your application requires English above B1 or all four skills, a PTE Home result does not meet that requirement. Use the official-check guide before selecting a level.

Citizenship is not the same application as settlement. Under current citizenship guidance, an expired B1-or-higher qualification can be reused if it was accepted when you settled. Settlement has different reuse conditions and a dated level change; an old B1 pass does not become B2.

What PTE Home proves

Pearson’s PTE Home tests assess speaking and listening at the level booked. They are not academic admission tests. Read our PTE Home guide for the format and result type.

Example: a previous pass changes the next question

Imagine that you passed A1 for a first partner application and are approaching the relevant 2.5-year extension. The next English question is whether you need at least A2, not whether you must repeat A1. If your earlier accepted evidence was already A2 or above, check the higher-level reuse provision instead of assuming you need another exam.

Now consider a later settlement application. Check its intended submission date and applicable level independently. A future B2 requirement cannot be satisfied by any Home level. This example organises the checks; it does not determine exemptions or decide an individual application.

Plan an approved appointment from India

Once the test and level are confirmed, use the India centre guide to reach Pearson’s live availability. A centre offering Academic does not automatically offer every Home level. Confirm the exact product, approved location and current ID policy.

The India guide provides dated local fee observations and practical planning. Keep time for check-in, processing and any further attempt before the receiving deadline. After the test, follow the results guide and read the SELT reference from the actual result.

Check before paying for a test

Complete the visa route and test-level check. It links the official family, settlement, result-reuse and approved-test guidance. Once the test is confirmed, follow the booking guide.