A change has taken place for UK visa applicants who need to prove their English language ability or have an overseas degree assessed. On 1st May 2025, the Home Office launched a new Qualification Language Service (QLS) in partnership with Ecctis. 

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This service replaces the long-standing Visa and Nationality Service that many applicants and sponsors have relied on for years. The change brings a shift in both process and practicality, with a new cost structure, increased turnaround times, and stricter verification requirements.

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For applicants, the introduction of QLS may come as an unwelcome surprise. The cost has risen from £147.50 plus VAT to £210 plus VAT, and the average processing time has doubled. What used to take 10 working days can now take up to 20. 

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That timeline can restart entirely if Ecctis requests additional documents, so planning is more important than ever. Adding to the complexity is the mandatory live identity check, which includes scanning a biometric passport and undergoing facial verification. If you fail to complete this process or your awarding institution doesn’t respond to Ecctis’ enquiries, your application will be closed, and no refund will be offered.

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In this context, it’s worth asking whether QLS is the right route. For some, it may be quicker and more cost-effective to simply take an approved English language test, particularly if speed or predictability is a priority. That decision will depend on your individual circumstances, but whichever path you choose, close monitoring of the process is crucial. If you're using QLS, ensure your documents are correct, notify your university in advance, and avoid submitting your visa application until you’ve received your Ecctis code. Skipping that step could lead to refusal.

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Sponsors will also need to adapt. Any immigration policies that reference the old Ecctis service should now be updated to reflect QLS and its new requirements. Budgeting may also need a review, as not only is QLS more expensive, but the responsibility for payment has shifted. Whereas legal representatives could previously pay the Ecctis fee and invoice the applicant, QLS requires applicants to pay directly. Sponsors should decide whether they will reimburse this fee and ensure their internal policies reflect that decision.

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Should you have any queries regarding the above information or if you require assistance with your corporate, employment or immigration matter, please get in touch with a legal professional at Hudson McKenzie via email at londoninfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone +44(0) 20 3318 5794.

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The information provided does not amount to legal advice.