The English language requirement
Study note
People who want to settle in the UK or become British citizens usually have to show that they can speak and understand English. This English language requirement sits alongside the Life in the UK Test as part of the process of settling here.
The reason for the requirement is practical. Being able to use English helps people take a full part in everyday life, including finding work, dealing with services, and getting involved in their community. It is not about passing an exam for its own sake but about being able to live and work successfully in the UK.
This requirement is about communication, not about other things. It is not needed in order to become a member of Parliament, to avoid paying tax, or to join the armed forces. The simple point to remember is that to settle in the UK you usually need to show you can speak and understand English.
Memory tip: To settle, you usually need to show you can speak and understand English.
Practise this topic
Question 1 of 2
Why do people applying to settle in the UK usually need to show knowledge of English?
Show all questions and answers for The English language requirement(2 questions with explanations)
The English language requirement: questions, answers and explanations
1. Why do people applying to settle in the UK usually need to show knowledge of English?
- To avoid paying any tax
- To help them take part fully in work and community life
- To join the armed forces
- To become a member of Parliament
Correct answer: To help them take part fully in work and community life
Knowing English helps people take part fully in life in the UK.
2. People applying to settle in the UK usually need to show they can speak and understand English.
- True
- False
Correct answer: True
True. A knowledge of English is usually required to settle or become a citizen.
Back to The Values and Principles of the UK, or try a mock test or timed exam.