Applying for Indefinite Leave

Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain and British Citizenship – Here’s what you need to know

Here’s what you need to know about the Knowledge of Language and Life (KoLL)

Applying for Indefinite Leave

Many people are unsure what exactly the Knowledge of Language and Life (KoLL) requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain and British Citizenship entails, and are unsure whether they are exempt from the requirements.

The KoLL requirement was introduced on 28 October 2013, and requires all applicants for indefinite leave to remain in the UK (ILR) and British Citizenship, to fulfill two requirements, unless exempt;

– To pass the Life in the UK test; and

– To have an English speaking and listening qualification at the B1 Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR).

Persons who are nationals of majority English speaking countries, and those who have obtained a degree taught in English will not be required to take the English test. In this regard it is important to note that South Africa is not considered to be a majority English speaking country. Even if your first language is English – if you are a South African, you have to fulfil the language requirement.

It is possible to fulfil the English language requirement in two ways;

If your degree was taught in the UK, you will automatically fulfil the English language requirement. If taught in another country, and you can prove that it is equivalent or at a higher standard than a UK bachelor’s degree, and evidence that it was taught in English, you will fulfil the requirement.

This evidence can be obtained via UK NARIC; or

An applicant will have to pass an English speaking and listening qualification, with an approved provider, at the Level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR).

Certain persons are exempted from the KoLL requirement, this inter alia include;

– Children under 18 years of age;

– Persons aged 65 years and older;

Persons who have a physical or mental condition which restricts their ability to learn English and/or communicate and/or to take the Life in the UK test;

Persons on the adult dependent relative, and retired person of independent means migration routes;

Spouses of British citizens or persons settled in the UK who have been victims of domestic violence or whose spouse has died.

For further information or for assistance with your application, please contact one of consultants who will be able to provide specific information in your unique case.

JP Breytenbach

Director of BIC, Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants Limited.
www.bic-immigration.com or info@bic-immigration.com