UK Values and Principles
The UK's values, principles, and requirements for becoming a permanent resident or citizen.
Living in the UK
The UK is a great place to live. It’s a modern country with a long and proud history. People from Britain have played an important part in politics, science, industry, and culture across the world. The UK also welcomes new migrants who bring diversity and energy to its national life.
Becoming a Resident or Citizen
Applying to live permanently or become a citizen of the UK is a big decision. It means accepting the country’s laws, values, and traditions. Good citizens respect these and make positive contributions to society.
To show that you are ready to settle permanently, you must pass the Life in the UK Test. This course helps you prepare, learn about the UK’s culture, history, and laws, and become an active part of your local community.
UK Values and Principles
Life in the UK is based on key values and principles that everyone should respect and support. These are shaped by British history and protected by law, customs, and expectations. There is no place for extremism or intolerance.
The main British values are:
- Democracy
- The rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Tolerance of others with different faiths and beliefs
- Participation in community life
The Citizenship Pledge
When you become a new citizen, you promise to follow these values by saying:
“I will give my loyalty to the United Kingdom and respect its rights and freedoms. I will uphold its democratic values. I will observe its laws faithfully and fulfil my duties and obligations as a British citizen.”
Responsibilities of People in the UK
Everyone living in the UK is expected to:
- Respect and obey the law
- Respect the rights and opinions of others
- Treat others fairly
- Look after themselves and their families
- Care for their local area and the environment
Freedoms and Rights in the UK
In return, the UK offers:
- Freedom of belief and religion
- Freedom of speech
- Freedom from unfair discrimination
- The right to a fair trial
- The right to take part in electing a government
Becoming a Permanent Resident
To apply for permanent residence or citizenship, you must:
- Speak and read English
- Understand life in the UK
This means you must:
- Pass the Life in the UK Test, and
- Show proof of English speaking and listening skills at B1 level (ESOL Entry Level 3) on the Common European Framework of Reference.
You can prove this with a recognised English qualification from an approved test centre. Requirements may change, so always check the latest information on the Home Office website before applying.
Key Points
- The UK is a modern country with a long, rich history and welcomes new migrants.
- Applying for permanent residence or citizenship is a serious commitment to UK laws, values, and traditions.
- Passing the Life in the UK Test is required for citizenship or permanent residence.
- British society is based on key values: democracy, rule of law, liberty, tolerance, and community participation.
- New citizens make a pledge to be loyal, follow laws, and uphold democratic values.
- Citizens and residents must respect others, obey the law, and care for themselves and their community.
- In return, they enjoy freedoms like religion, speech, fair trial, and the right to vote.
- To become a permanent resident, applicants must pass the Life in the UK Test and prove English language skills at B1 level.
- Applicants should always check the latest requirements on the Home Office website.