Sri Lanka, March 9 -- Migrants will need to speak English to a higher standard if they wish to stay permanently in the UK, under landmark reforms introduced tomorrow.

They are being given a full year's notice to prepare - giving them the best opportunity to integrate into British life.

The change marks the first delivery moment of the government's Earned Settlement reforms - designed to reward those who contribute, integrate and play by the rules.

Since January, applicants for most work visas have been required to meet the higher A level standard in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Most foreign nationals applying for settlement must now meet the new A-level equivalent standard, raised from the current GCSE level.

It takes...