New rules ​for naturalisation​

Individuals wishing to apply for indefinite leave to remain (referred to hereafter as settlement) or naturalisation as British citizens (referred to hereafter as naturalisation) are required to demonstrate their knowledge of language and life in the UK (the KoLL requirement). Currently there are two ways in which this requirement can be met:

• By passing the Life in the UK test, a computer based test based on the Life in the UK handbook and set at an English level equivalent to B1 (intermediate level) on the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR).
• By obtaining a speaking and listening qualification in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) at Entry levels 1, 2 or 3. The applicant must have studied at an accredited institution on a course of study which uses specified citizenship based teaching materials and have demonstrated progression from one ESOL level to the next.

Since April 2011, people who entered the UK on work routes have been required to meet the KoLL requirement by taking the Life in the UK test rather than the ESOL route.

What is The Life in the UK test?​

The Life in the UK test is designed to test your knowledge of British life and ability to use the English language.

• The Life in the UK test is a computer-based, multiple choice test.
• The test is made up of 24 multiple-choice questions.
• Applicants are given 45 minutes to complete the test.
• The pass mark is 75% (18 questions correct out of 24).
• You must book your Life in the UK Test online at least 7 days in advance. It costs £50.
• There are around 60 test centres in the UK – choose one of the 5 closest to where you live.

Book your test

You must book your test online through the GOV.UK website (www.gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test). You’ll need all of the following to book a test:

• A valid photo ID to check your identity (e.g., Biometric Residence Permit, passport, driving licence, European Union Identity Card, travel document, or Immigration Status Document)
• Valid proof of postcode to verify your address (e.g., gas/electricity/water bill, council tax bill, bank or credit card statement, driving licence, or a letter from the Home Office)
• A debit or credit card to pay for your test (The cost of your test is £50.00)
• Your own email address to create your own account

The test is open to those aged 18 to 65 who wish to become a British citizen. The test costs £50, can be taken at around 60 official test centres in the UK and must be booked at least seven days in advance.

Test contents

The test covers a range of topics relating to the UK, including:

• The process of becoming a citizen or permanent resident
• The values and principles of the UK
• Traditions and culture from around the UK
• The events and people that have shaped the UK’s history
• The government and the law
• Getting involved in your community

Study the materials

Once you have a test appointment, you can study with that date as a goal. All the questions that can be asked in the Life in the UK Test are based on the official study materials provided by the Home Office.