Chapter 1: The values and principles of the UK

Values and principles

British society rests on shared values that everyone who lives in the UK is expected to respect. There are five fundamental principles: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, and participation in community life. Anyone who wants to settle permanently or become a citizen also takes on responsibilities: to respect and obey the law, to respect other people's rights (including their right to their own opinions), to treat others fairly, to look after themselves and their family, and to care for their local area and the environment. In return, the UK offers important freedoms: freedom of belief and religion, freedom of speech, freedom from unfair discrimination, a right to a fair trial and a right to take part in electing a government. New British citizens mark the occasion at a citizenship ceremony. There they swear an oath of allegiance to the monarch, or make a non-religious affirmation instead, and then make a pledge to respect the UK's rights and freedoms and uphold its laws.

Becoming a permanent resident

Settling permanently in the UK (also called indefinite leave to remain) and becoming a British citizen both involve showing that you understand life in the UK and can communicate in English. Most adult applicants must pass the Life in the UK test and also prove their English speaking and listening skills at level B1 or above on the Common European Framework of Reference, or hold an equivalent qualification, such as a degree taught in English. Together these two parts are known as the Knowledge of Language and Life requirement. Not everyone has to meet it. People under 18 and people aged 65 or over do not need to take the test, and neither do people with a long-term physical or mental condition, who provide an exemption form or a doctor's letter instead. Someone who has already passed the test, for example when applying to settle, does not need to take it again when applying for citizenship.

Taking the test

The Life in the UK test can only be booked online, through the official booking service. It must be taken at a registered and approved test centre; you cannot sit it at home or anywhere else. On the day, bring the original of the same identity document you used to book, because without it you will be turned away and will not get your fee back. The questions are based on the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents, so studying it thoroughly is the best preparation. If you do not pass, you can book the test again; there is no limit on attempts, but you pay each time. GOV.UK sets out the practical rules: there are 24 questions to answer in 45 minutes, you need at least 75% (18 correct answers) to pass, and you must book at least 3 days in advance. When you pass, you receive a unique reference number to use in your application.

Test yourself