Legally Speaking | Knowledge of Language and Life requirement for settlement in the UK

From 28 October 2013, all applicants for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the UK, as well as UK citizenship would be expected to pass the Life in the UK test, and to pass an English speaking and listening test.

by Breytenbachs

20-06-2013 12:34

in News

From 28 October 2013, all applicants for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the UK, as well as UK citizenship will be expected 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).

This is known as the KoLL requirement — Knowledge of Language and Life requirement.

Persons who are nationals of majority English speaking countries, and those who have obtained a degree taught in English will be required to take the Life in the UK test, but will not be required to take the English test. Note that South Africa is not considered an English speaking country.

Who will be exempt?

The following persons will inter alia be exempt from the KoLL requirement;

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;
Refugees and those with humanitarian protection;
Certain categories of persons will be able to apply for further periods of limited leave to enable them to meet the requirements, including;
- Dependants of HM forces personnel ;
- Dependants of persons who originally entered as PBS migrants or work permit holders.
Provisions will be also be introduced for certain individuals who have been in the UK for 15 years with limited leave as a partner, child or parent, or dependant of HM Forces personnel. Please speak to one of our consultants for more information about this category.