Becoming a permanent resident
To apply to become a permanent resident or citizen of the UK, you usually need to speak and read English and have a good understanding of life in the UK.
Applicants normally show this by passing the Life in the UK test and meeting the English language requirement.
People who become British citizens take part in a citizenship ceremony, where they make an oath or affirmation of allegiance and a pledge.
The test costs £50 and must be booked online at least 3 days in advance using the official booking service. Always check GOV.UK for current fees and rules.
Key facts
- The citizenship pledge promises to respect the rights, freedoms and laws of the UK, to uphold its democratic values, and to fulfil duties and obligations as a citizen.
- At the ceremony, new citizens can swear an oath (religious) or make an affirmation (non-religious) — both are equally valid.
- The Life in the UK test is taken at an approved test centre. It has 24 questions about the handbook content, and you have 45 minutes.
- The handbook says the test is based on the whole book, so every chapter can be tested.
Memory tips
- Oath = with God; affirmation = without religious words. Same legal effect.
Practice questions
1. What do new citizens make at a citizenship ceremony?
- A speech about their home country
- An oath or affirmation of allegiance and a pledge
- A promise to join the armed forces
- A donation to charity
Show answer
At a citizenship ceremony new citizens make an oath or affirmation of allegiance and a pledge to respect the rights, freedoms and laws of the UK.
2. How many questions are in the Life in the UK test?
- 20
- 24
- 30
- 40
Show answer
The test has 24 questions and you have 45 minutes to complete it.
3. What percentage do you need to pass the Life in the UK test?
- 50%
- 65%
- 75%
- 90%
Show answer
The pass mark is 75%, which means answering at least 18 of the 24 questions correctly.
4. Is the following statement true or false? “The Life in the UK test is based on the official handbook.”
- True
- False
Show answer
True. The test questions are based on the content of the official handbook, Life in the UK: A Guide for New Residents.
5. How long do you have to complete the Life in the UK test?
- 30 minutes
- 45 minutes
- 60 minutes
- 90 minutes
Show answer
You have 45 minutes to answer the 24 questions.
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