UK plans mandatory English and Life in the UK Test requirements for settlement
Announced by UK Government (GOV.UK)Nov 2, 2026Checked on the official page Nov 12BLOOM ABROAD Editorial · Managing editor Yuki Sugimoto
NewUnited KingdomVisas and rules
In short
- What
- All settlement applicants will face mandatory requirements such as English and the Life in the UK Test.
- What to do
- Prepare for English and the Life in the UK Test, and make sure you have no government debt.
Does this apply to you?
It applies to
- All applicants for UK settlement (ILR)
- People who studied and work in the UK and plan to settle
- People seeking settlement as family members (provisions for families have been strengthened)
Key terms
- ILR
- Indefinite Leave to Remain: the right to live in the UK permanently without immigration restrictions, also called settlement.
- Life in the UK Test
- A test of knowledge about life, history and society in the UK.
- Consultation
- A process where the government collects public views before deciding on a policy.
What changed
The government response to the settlement consultation was published on 2 November 2026.
All applicants will need to meet "mandatory requirements" on character and suitability, government debt, English language, the Life in the UK Test and sustained contribution.
The starting point for settlement will increase from 5 to 10 years. People who make a sustained contribution can qualify sooner.
Those who break the law or immigration rules may face a longer route or be unable to settle at all. Provisions for families have been strengthened, and the range of recognised contributions has been broadened.
Who it applies to
- People already in the UK (transitional protections, including for care workers and certain health and education workers)
- Refugees (distinct arrangements apply)
When it applies
The consultation ran from 20 November 2025 to 12 February 2026. The government response was published on 2 November 2026. Before implementation, further technical guidance and a full impact assessment will be published.
Exceptions
Relevant exemptions will apply, except in relation to criminality. There are targeted protections for vulnerable groups and distinct arrangements for refugees.
There are also transitional protections for people already in the UK, including care workers and certain health and education workers.
What to check or do
- First, check the government response and upcoming guidance on the official page.
- Improve your English and start preparing for the Life in the UK Test.
- Make sure you have no government debt.
- Be careful not to break the law or immigration rules.
- Keep records that show your sustained contribution.
Official sources
- Officially announced
- Nov 2, 2026
- Effective from
- Not confirmed
- Last checked
- Nov 12, 2026
Checked against official sources
gov.uk (external site)
