Chapter 1
Becoming a permanent resident or citizen
What you must show to settle or naturalise, and what happens at a citizenship ceremony.
By the end you should know
- Know the language and knowledge requirements for settlement and citizenship
- Know what is said at a citizenship ceremony
To get permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain) or British citizenship, most adults must show two things: that they can speak and understand English, and that they know about life in the UK. Passing the Life in the UK test covers the second part.
What must most adults show to get settlement or British citizenship?
That they speak and understand English, and that they have knowledge of life in the UK (by passing the Life in the UK test).
Citizenship ceremonies
People who become British citizens attend a citizenship ceremony. There they publicly commit to the UK by taking an oath of allegiance — or making a non-religious affirmation — and making a pledge.
What is the difference between an oath and an affirmation?
An oath of allegiance is sworn by God; an affirmation is the non-religious equivalent. New citizens choose one.
What do new citizens promise in the citizenship pledge?
Loyalty to the UK; to respect its rights and freedoms; to uphold its democratic values; to observe its laws faithfully; and to fulfil their duties and obligations as British citizens.