As of the 28 October 2013, the government has introduced changes to the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK (KoLL) requirement that will apply to any application for settlement in the UK for adults (aged 18 and above).
For applicants that do qualify for settlement through Tier 2 having had continuous residence in the UK in qualifying categories will now be required to pass the Life in the UK test and also have a speaking and listening qualification in English at B1 CEFR or higher, or its equivalent. Those who are from a majority English speaking country or have a degree which was taught in English will not be required to sit a speaking and listening qualification but they will still be required to sit the Life in the UK Test.
The Life in the UK test is a computer- based, multiple choice test. There will be no change to the existing booking mechanisms and tests will continue to be booked online through the website.
Applicants who already have an English language qualification at B1 level or above will not be required to take another one. For example, someone who demonstrated a knowledge of English equivalent to B1 level when applying for entry clearance will not be required to take a further test in order to qualify settlement.
However if you were granted settlement under the old rules then when an application for naturalisation is made you will need to satisfy thecurrent KOLL requirement. For some people this will mean passing a relevant speaking and listening qualification for the first time. Others will need to pass a speaking and listening qualification at a higher level than they had to demonstrate to be granted leave to enter or leave to remain in the UK.
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