Appendix KoLL of the UK Immigration Rules

Appendix KoLL of the UK Immigration Rules sets out the requirements that applicants must meet to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the English language and knowledge about life in the United Kingdom when applying for certain immigration permissions, particularly Indefinite Leave to Enter or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

This guide explains when Appendix KoLL applies, outlines the exemptions available under the rules, and describes how applicants can meet the relevant requirements where applicable.

What is Appendix KoLL?

Appendix KoLL, also referred to as “Appendix KoLL: Knowledge of language and life”, explains how applicants prove that they have an adequate understanding of both the English language and life in the UK when this is required by the Immigration Rules for settlement applications.

Unless an exemption applies under the rules, applicants seeking indefinite leave to enter or remain must satisfy two separate requirements.

Knowledge of the English language

Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the required level of English language ability. This requirement can be satisfied through approved tests, academic qualifications taught in English, or other recognised methods specified in the Immigration Rules.

Knowledge of life in the UK

Applicants must also show that they understand life in the United Kingdom. This is normally demonstrated by passing the Life in the UK Test.

Appendix KoLL also outlines the general exemptions to these requirements, including exemptions based on age. In addition, UK Visas and Immigration caseworkers have discretion to waive the requirements in certain situations where exceptional or special circumstances apply.

When does Appendix KoLL apply?

Appendix KoLL applies to specific immigration applications where an individual is seeking indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK, which is commonly referred to as settlement.

However, the provisions in Appendix KoLL should be distinguished from those in Appendix KoL. Appendix KoL relates only to the requirement to demonstrate knowledge of life in the UK for settlement applications under certain immigration routes.

For example, individuals applying for indefinite leave to remain under the Skilled Worker route fall under Appendix KoL rather than Appendix KoLL.

Skilled Worker settlement applications

A person who has held continuous permission under the Skilled Worker route for five years and is applying for settlement will generally only need to meet the knowledge of life in the UK requirement under Appendix KoL. They are not normally required to meet a further English language requirement.

This is because Skilled Worker applicants must already demonstrate their English language ability when they first apply for their visa under that route.

Other immigration categories

Under some other immigration categories, applicants may be required to satisfy both the Life in the UK requirement and the English language requirement through the relevant appendices. In addition, settlement applications made under routes that are not covered by Appendix KoL continue to fall under Appendix KoLL.

Is Appendix KoLL different from Appendix English Language?

Appendix KoLL specifically addresses the requirement for applicants to demonstrate both sufficient English language ability and knowledge of life in the UK when applying for indefinite leave to enter or remain.

By comparison, Appendix English Language applies to applications for limited leave to enter or remain under many work and study routes, including the Skilled Worker route, as well as some settlement applications. This appendix focuses exclusively on English language requirements and does not include the Life in the UK Test requirement.

English language requirements for visa applications

Appendix English Language usually applies at the stage when applicants first apply for entry clearance or permission to stay under a work or study route. For example, applicants under the Skilled Worker route must normally demonstrate English language ability at least at CEFR level B1 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

English language requirements for settlement

When Skilled Worker visa holders later apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after completing the qualifying residence period, which is typically five years, the Life in the UK Test becomes a mandatory requirement.

At this stage, applicants must show English language ability at CEFR level B1 or higher unless they already demonstrated the same level or a higher level when they applied for their initial visa.

What are the KoLL requirements?

Appendix KoLL establishes two main requirements that applicants must meet when applying for settlement in the UK. These requirements are knowledge of the English language and knowledge of life in the United Kingdom.

The ability to understand and communicate in English at a level that enables interaction with the wider community is considered essential for successful integration. At the same time, individuals who wish to settle permanently in the UK are expected to have a basic understanding of the country’s history, culture, and the responsibilities that come with permanent residence.

Knowledge of the English language

There are several ways an applicant can satisfy the English language requirement under Appendix KoLL. An applicant will normally be considered to have sufficient knowledge of English if one of the following applies.

They are a national or citizen of a listed majority English speaking country. These countries include Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Malta, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United States.

They hold an academic qualification that is either a UK Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, or PhD, or a qualification recognised by Ecctis formerly known as UK NARIC as being equivalent to a UK degree from an educational institution in a listed majority English speaking country including Ireland but excluding Canada.

They possess an academic qualification that Ecctis confirms is equivalent to at least a UK Bachelor’s degree and has also verified that the qualification was taught or researched in English.

They have successfully passed an approved English language test in speaking and listening at a minimum level of B1 under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. The test must be taken through an approved English language provider at a Secure English Language Test centre within two years before the application date.

An applicant will also meet the English language requirement if they currently hold limited leave to enter or remain in the UK that was granted on the basis that they already demonstrated English language ability at least at CEFR level B1. This can include an earlier grant of leave, provided that all subsequent periods of leave have been continuous.

Knowledge of life in the UK

Applicants who fall within the scope of Appendix KoLL must also demonstrate knowledge of life in the United Kingdom.

This requirement is normally satisfied by passing the Life in the UK Test, which is administered by approved educational institutions or authorised organisations.

The test is based on information contained in the official Life in the UK Test handbook. During the test, applicants are given 45 minutes to answer 24 questions covering topics such as British traditions, customs, history, and society.

Exemptions under Appendix KoLL

Appendix KoLL provides several circumstances in which an applicant is not required to demonstrate knowledge of English or knowledge of life in the UK.

An applicant will be exempt if they are under 18 years of age on the date of the application.

An applicant will also be exempt if they are 65 years of age or older at the date of the application.

Exemption may also apply where an applicant cannot reasonably be expected to meet one or both of the KoLL requirements because of a physical or mental condition.

Appendix KoLL also identifies certain immigration routes where applicants who are not nationals of majority English speaking countries may still be considered to have met the KoLL requirements. In these cases, the applicant must usually have held continuous leave to enter or remain in the UK for at least 15 years.

However, even in these situations, the applicant must still demonstrate basic knowledge of English at approximately CEFR level A2 and show that they have made efforts to learn the language but do not yet have sufficient knowledge to pass a qualification at the higher B1 level.

In addition to the exemptions outlined in the rules, Home Office guidance identifies several specific categories of applicants who do not need to meet the KoLL requirements. These may include individuals applying for settlement after experiencing domestic abuse and applicants seeking settlement as stateless persons.

Evidencing eligibility under Appendix KoLL

Applicants must provide appropriate documentary evidence to demonstrate that they meet the requirements under Appendix KoLL. The exact documents required will depend on the basis on which the applicant is claiming to meet the requirements.

Evidence for nationals of majority English speaking countries

Applicants relying on nationality must provide a valid passport or travel document that clearly confirms their nationality.

Evidence for UK degree holders

Applicants who hold a degree from a UK university must provide a degree certificate issued by the institution. The certificate should confirm the academic qualification and include the applicant’s name, the awarding institution, and the title and date of the award.

Evidence for degrees from majority English speaking countries

Applicants with degrees from listed majority English speaking countries including Ireland but excluding Canada must provide a degree certificate along with confirmation from Ecctis that the qualification is equivalent to at least a UK Bachelor’s degree. This confirmation is known as the Academic Qualification Level Statement.

Evidence for degrees from other countries

Applicants with degrees from countries not on the majority English speaking list including Canada must provide a degree certificate and an Academic Qualification Level Statement confirming the qualification’s equivalence. They must also obtain confirmation from Ecctis that the degree was taught in English. This is known as the English Language Proficiency Statement.

Evidence for English language test results

Applicants who rely on passing an approved English language test must provide the unique reference number issued by the test provider. For the Life in the UK requirement, the unique reference number from the Life in the UK Test provider must also be provided.

If the required documentation cannot be submitted, for example because a passport or degree certificate has been lost or stolen or because the applicant has not formally graduated, Appendix KoLL explains what alternative evidence may be accepted and in which circumstances it can be used.

Applicants relying on the provision for individuals with at least 15 years of continuous leave must provide documentary evidence of their basic English language ability. They must also provide a statement from a qualified English language teacher confirming that they have made genuine efforts to learn English but have not yet reached the required level for the B1 qualification.

Evidence for medical exemption

Where an applicant seeks an exemption due to a physical or mental condition, the supporting evidence must be completed by the applicant’s general practitioner, another GP within the same practice, or a consultant registered with the General Medical Council.

The medical professional must have personally examined the applicant, assessed their ability to meet the KoLL requirements, and confirm that the applicant’s condition prevents them from learning English or preparing for the Life in the UK Test for the foreseeable future.

A waiver request form must also be completed by the medical practitioner. This form should include details about the applicant’s medical condition, symptoms, prognosis, and the reasons why the individual cannot reasonably be expected to learn English or prepare for the Life in the UK Test.

Need assistance?

We are UK immigration specialists providing guidance on a wide range of Home Office applications. Our team advises on eligibility requirements and helps applicants understand how to meet and evidence the English language and Life in the UK knowledge requirements where applicable.

If you have questions about your eligibility or need support with the application process, our experts are available to help. We can provide tailored advice to ensure you understand the requirements and prepare the necessary documentation for your application.

Appendix KoLL FAQs

What is Appendix KoLL?

Appendix KoLL refers to the section of the UK Immigration Rules that sets out the requirements for demonstrating Knowledge of Life in the UK and English language ability. These requirements generally apply to individuals applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain or Indefinite Leave to Enter, unless they qualify for an exemption under the rules.

What is the Life in the UK Test?

The Life in the UK Test is a multiple choice exam designed to assess an applicant’s understanding of British history, culture, traditions, and laws. The test contains 24 questions and applicants must achieve a score of at least 75 percent to pass.

How can I prove my English language skills?

Applicants can satisfy the English language requirement by passing an approved English language test at CEFR level B1 or higher. Another common way to meet this requirement is by holding a degree that was taught in English. In addition, nationals of countries where English is the majority language are usually exempt from the English language test requirement.

Who is exempt from these requirements?

Certain applicants are exempt from the KoLL requirements. Exemptions generally apply to individuals who are under the age of 18 or over the age of 65 at the time of application. Applicants may also qualify for an exemption if they have a physical or mental condition that prevents them from meeting the requirements. In some cases, applicants who previously satisfied these requirements in an earlier immigration application may not need to meet them again.

What happens if I fail the Life in the UK Test?

If an applicant fails the Life in the UK Test, they can take the test again. There is no limit to the number of attempts, although the test fee must be paid each time the test is retaken.

Do employers have a role in Appendix KoLL?

Employers do not have a formal role in meeting the KoLL requirements. However, they may support employees who are preparing for settlement by allowing time for test preparation or by helping them access English language training. Ultimately, responsibility for meeting the requirements rests with the applicant.

Can I use a previous qualification to meet the requirements?

Yes, in many cases a qualification that was previously accepted in an immigration application can be used again, provided it still meets the current requirements set out in the Immigration Rules.

What documents are needed to prove eligibility?

Applicants are typically required to provide evidence that they have passed the Life in the UK Test as well as proof of their English language ability. This may include a test certificate, a unique reference number from an approved test provider, or documentation confirming a relevant academic qualification.

Does Appendix KoLL apply to all visa types?

No, Appendix KoLL does not apply to all visa categories. It mainly applies to individuals applying for settlement in the UK, such as those seeking Indefinite Leave to Remain or Indefinite Leave to Enter. Temporary visa holders are generally not required to meet these requirements.

Where can I find official guidance on Appendix KoLL?

Detailed guidance and the full rules relating to Appendix KoLL are available on the official UK government website. This resource provides the most up to date information about eligibility criteria and how applicants can meet the knowledge of language and life requirements.

Glossary

Term	Definition
Appendix International Sportsperson	The immigration rules for individuals applying for a visa to work as an elite sportsperson or coach in the UK.
Entry Clearance	Permission granted to a non-UK resident to enter the UK under a specific visa category.
Settlement (ILR)	Indefinite Leave to Remain; a permanent residency status allowing individuals to live and work in the UK without time restrictions.
CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)	An international standard for measuring language proficiency, divided into six levels from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery).
CEFR Level A1	The basic language proficiency level, indicating the ability to use simple phrases and understand basic expressions.
CEFR Level B1	An intermediate language proficiency level, showing the ability to deal with everyday tasks and conversations with some fluency.
English Language Requirement	A condition in certain visa and settlement applications, requiring applicants to demonstrate a specified level of English proficiency.
Exemption	A situation where an applicant is not required to meet a particular visa condition, such as the English language requirement.
Knowledge of English	The ability to speak and understand English, which can be demonstrated through tests, qualifications, or nationality.
Immigration Rules	The official guidelines governing entry, stay, and settlement in the UK, applicable to various visa categories.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	A status that allows non-UK citizens to remain in the UK permanently, without restrictions on work or residency.
Sportsperson Visa	A UK visa route for elite athletes and coaches endorsed by their sport’s governing body to work in the UK.
Language Test Provider	An organisation approved by the UK government to administer English language tests for visa and settlement purposes.
Qualification in English	An academic or professional qualification taught in English that can be used as evidence of language proficiency.