Tougher English rules daunting for many Hong Kong BN(O) holders: veteran teacher
B2-level English requires understanding of complex passages, solid grounding in grammar and broad vocabulary, says teacher Pauline Chow
Tighter English requirements for migrants moving to the UK may be challenging for many Hongkongers applying for a bespoke visa pathway, with some Britons even struggling to attain the level, a veteran teacher and a support group leader for new arrivals have said.
The Home Office confirmed on Friday that Hongkongers using the British National (Overseas) visa scheme to move to the UK must meet a higher English-language level set for all migrants as part of a shake-up of the country’s immigration system.
Under the overhaul announced on Thursday, migrants will need to meet the B2 English proficiency level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, up from the current B1.
Veteran English teacher Pauline Chow Lo-sai said that B2-level English, which requires understanding complex passages and technical discussions, speaking spontaneously with a native speaker, and a solid grounding in grammar and broad vocabulary, could be daunting for many Hongkongers.
“Do you find that many people in Hong Kong can speak spontaneously and can engage in a discussion in English? I don’t really think so,” she said.
“It would be very challenging. You know, people in Hong Kong do not actually have to use English, even for professionals.”