Chapter 1The Values and Principles of the UK

Becoming a Permanent Resident

Requirements for Permanent Residence

To apply to become a permanent resident or citizen of the UK, you will need to:

  • Speak and read English
  • Have a good understanding of life in the UK

The Life in the UK Test

  • The test consists of 24 questions about important aspects of life in the UK
  • Questions are based on all parts of the official handbook
  • The 24 questions will be different for each person taking the test
  • Usually taken in English, with special arrangements available for Welsh or Scottish Gaelic

Taking the Test

  • You can only take the test at a registered and approved test centre (approximately 60 centres across the UK)
  • You can only book online at the official website
  • You must bring identification and proof of address to the test — without these, you will not be able to take the test
  • The test is not available at any other establishment

Special Arrangements

  • If you live on the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands, there are different arrangements
  • The English language requirement is at ESOL Entry Level 3 (equivalent to B1 on the Common European Framework)

Test yourself

Check your understanding with these quick questions.

1.To apply to become a permanent resident of the UK, you will need to:

2.How many questions are in the Life in the UK test?

3.Where can you take the Life in the UK test?

4.In which languages can the Life in the UK test be taken?

5.How can you book the Life in the UK test?

Want more practice?

Try a full timed mock test with 24 questions.

Take a mock test