New language requirements for Ministers of Religion

Since August 2004 people coming to the UK on a visa that identifies them as Ministers of Religion have been required to demonstrate competence in English to the International English Language Testing (IELTS) level 4 or above. From 19 April 2006 they will be required to demonstrate competence to IELTS level 6 or above. This level requires the applicant to be a competent writer or speaker of English. Not every faith group is treated as a religion for UK immigration purposes. Examples of the religions included are the Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh faiths. There is a separate category in the immigration rules for ‘religious workers’ whose duties do not include preaching. Religious workers do not have to demonstrate competence in English.