The Values and Principles of the UK

The United Kingdom is built on a set of shared values that bind together people from many different backgrounds. These values include democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs, and participation in community life.

Becoming a permanent resident or citizen of the UK means accepting these values. New residents are expected to respect and obey the law, treat others with fairness, and contribute positively to British society.

Anyone applying for permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain) or British citizenship is required to take an oath or affirmation of allegiance and a pledge to uphold the values of the United Kingdom.

Permanent residents and citizens of the UK share certain responsibilities. These include respecting and obeying the law, respecting the rights of others including their right to their own opinions, treating others with fairness, looking after yourself and your family, and looking after the area in which you live and the environment.

In addition to these responsibilities, citizens are expected to take part in community life, vote in elections, and may be called for jury service. Many people also choose to volunteer or help others in their community.

Living in the UK means enjoying a number of freedoms. These include freedom of belief and religion, freedom of speech, freedom from unfair discrimination, the right to a fair trial, and the right to join in the election of a government.

The UK has a long tradition of protecting individual rights and welcoming people who wish to make their home in Britain. Equality is protected by laws including the Equality Act 2010, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics.

To apply for permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain) or British citizenship, applicants must usually pass the Life in the UK Test and demonstrate a certain level of English language skill (or, where applicable, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic).

The Life in the UK Test is a computer-based test of 24 questions, taken at an approved test centre. You must answer at least 18 of the 24 questions correctly (a 75% pass mark) within 45 minutes to pass.

The test covers the values and principles of the UK, what the UK is, its history, modern society, and its government and law. The official study material is the handbook 'Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents', available from GOV.UK.