Life in the UK Test for ILR vs British citizenship
Last reviewed · Reviewed by the BritainTest editorial team
The Life in the UK Test is needed for both indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and British citizenship, but you usually only take it once. This guide explains how the test fits each route and how the two differ. It is part of the KoLL requirement, and is general information, not immigration advice.
Do you need the test for both?
Yes. The same Life in the UK Test is required for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) and for naturalising as a British citizen, unless you are exempt. There is no separate or harder version for citizenship.
Do you retake it for citizenship?
Usually not. If you already passed the Life in the UK Test for a successful settlement (ILR) application, you generally do not have to take it again when you apply for citizenship. A pass never expires, and the unique reference number you receive when you pass is what you give in both applications as evidence. This depends on your circumstances, so confirm your own route on GOV.UK.
ILR vs citizenship: the difference
| Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) | British citizenship | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Settlement: live and work in the UK with no time limit | Becoming a British citizen, with a passport |
| Life in the UK Test | Required | Required (not retaken if already passed for ILR) |
| English (B1) | Required | Required |
| Usual order | Get ILR first | Apply after holding ILR (often about 12 months) |
Most people settle first, then apply for citizenship later, so the test is usually taken at the ILR stage. Our how to become a British citizen guide covers the citizenship step in full.
Both need English too
As well as the test, both routes usually require you to meet the B1 English requirement, which our B1 English guide explains. The age and condition exemptions apply to both. Always check your own route on GOV.UK.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the test needed for both ILR and citizenship?
- Yes, most applicants need it for both routes, unless exempt, but you usually only take it once.
- Do I need it again for citizenship?
- Usually not, if you already passed it for your settlement (ILR) application. Check your case on GOV.UK.
- Does a Life in the UK Test pass expire?
- No. A pass is valid indefinitely, and the unique reference number you receive is the evidence you use in your application.
- What is the difference between ILR and citizenship?
- ILR is permanent residence in the UK. Citizenship makes you a British citizen, with a passport. You usually get ILR first.
- Do both routes need English?
- Yes. Both usually require B1 English as well as the Life in the UK Test.
- How long after ILR can I apply for citizenship?
- Often about 12 months after getting ILR, though this depends on your route, so check GOV.UK.
Official sources (GOV.UK)
This page explains the Life in the UK Test for ILR and British citizenship and is for study and preparation only. It is general information, not immigration advice, and does not determine your eligibility for settlement or citizenship. For official rules and any updates, rely on GOV.UK; GOV.UK guidance controls if anything here differs.
Related guides
View all guides →Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Explained
What indefinite leave to remain (settlement) is, the common routes to it, the requirements including the Life in the UK Test, and how ILR leads to British citizenship. General information, not advice.
The Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK (KoLL) Requirement
The KoLL requirement explained: to settle or become a citizen you must pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English requirement at B1, unless you are exempt. General information, not advice.
How to Become a British Citizen (Naturalisation)
How to become a British citizen: who is eligible, the residence and good-character requirements, the Life in the UK Test and B1 English, how to apply, and the ceremony. General information, not advice.
Life in the UK Test: Format, Pass Mark & How It Works
How the test works: 24 questions in 45 minutes, an 18/24 (75%) pass mark, fees, booking, exemptions and retakes, and how to practise.
Reasonable Adjustments & Accessibility
If you have a disability or health condition, you may be able to get a reasonable adjustment to take the test. How to ask, and how it differs from an exemption. General information, not advice.