The English language requirement
Who must prove English for citizenship, what evidence counts, and who is exempt.
The level you need
For naturalisation you must show you can speak and listen in English (or Welsh or Scottish Gaelic) at B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) or higher. This is a separate requirement from the Life in the UK Test, and you must meet both.
Evidence that counts
- A Secure English Language Test (SELT) at B1, B2, C1 or C2 from a Home Office approved provider on the current GOV.UK list. Only approved SELTs count. GCSEs, A levels and NVQs do not.
- An academic (not vocational) degree taught or researched in English. A degree from a UK institution counts directly. For a degree from outside the UK you need an Ecctis assessment confirming it is equivalent to a UK bachelor's degree or higher and was taught in English.
If you get the wrong qualification, your application will be refused.
Reusing the test from your ILR application
Some SELTs are only valid for 2 years. For citizenship, you can still use a B1 or higher qualification that has expired if it was accepted when you were granted settlement. It does not matter if that test is no longer on the current list.
Exemptions
You do not need to prove English if you:
- are aged 65 or over
- have a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents you, confirmed on the official form by a doctor
- are a national of Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland (for citizenship only), Jamaica, Malta, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, the USA, or a British overseas territory
Coming from another country where English is an official language does not exempt you. If you were exempt when you got ILR for some other reason, you will need to meet the requirement, or claim an exemption again, when you apply for citizenship.
Changes coming for settlement
From 26 March 2027, the English requirement for settlement (ILR) on many routes rises from B1 to B2 (statement of changes HC 1691). If you are not yet settled, plan for B2. In October 2026, GOV.UK and Guide AN still set B1 for naturalisation.
- GOV.UK – Life in the UK Test (booking, ID, what happens at the test, refunds)
- GOV.UK – Check if you can become a British citizen
- GOV.UK – Apply for citizenship if you have ILR or settled status (eligibility, fee)
- GOV.UK – Apply for citizenship if your spouse is a British citizen
- GOV.UK – Form AN: guidance (Guide AN, July 2026)