UNITED KINGDOM: New Qualification Language Service is introduced.

May 8, 2025


By: Sachini Gamage, UK Immigration Consultant, Newland Chase

On May 1, 2025 a new Qualification Language Service (QLS) was launched in the UK, in partnership with the Home Office. Ecctis is no longer offering the Visa and Nationality Service on behalf of the Home Office for UK visa applicants. QLS verifies English language proficiency and/or the UK equivalence of academic qualifications for degrees taught overseas.

The following factors should be considered when choosing QLS.

  • QLS will now cost £210 plus VAT (compared to £147.50 plus VAT for the previous service).
  • The turnaround time has increased from 10 to 20 working days. This timeframe will reset if further documents are requested to assess your degree.
  • The fast-track option is no longer available.
  • Every applicant must complete a live identity check, along with a scan of their passport and face. The passport must be biometric. Failure to complete the live check will result in the application’s refusal.
  • Applications will be closed automatically if the awarding institution does not respond to Ecctis’ enquiries.
  • Applicants will not be eligible for any refund while the application is in progress.
  • Third parties, such as legal representatives, will not be permitted to complete applications on behalf of their clients.

Newland Chase can assist with QLS applications.

Applicants are advised to plan extensively before submitting the visa applications and allow ample time to complete the application. If applications are deemed to contain insufficient documentation, the 20-working-day timer will reset.

We offer a bespoke consultation service for applicants who will be undertaking QLS, in which we do the following:

  • Guide you through this process on a video call
  • Help set up the application
  • Advise on the documents required

Please reach out to your Newland Chase dedicated contact or submit an inquiry should you have any specific questions regarding this announcement.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.