The Values and Principles of the UK

The fundamental principles of British life

The UK is built on a set of shared values and principles. New citizens and permanent residents are expected to respect and uphold these:

• Democracy
• The rule of law
• Individual liberty
• Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
• Participation in community life

These principles shape much of what you'll read in this handbook — they explain why people from many backgrounds can live in the UK as equal members of society, why everyone (including the government) must follow the law, and why it's a serious offence to discriminate against someone because of their race, religion or sex.

Becoming a permanent resident

To apply to become a permanent resident (also called indefinite leave to remain, or ILR) or a British citizen, you will normally need to:

• Speak and read English to a sufficient standard
• Have a good understanding of life in the UK

You demonstrate these by passing two tests:

1. An English language test (or have a degree taught in English), and
2. The Life in the UK Test — the test this site helps you prepare for.

The citizenship ceremony and pledge

If your citizenship application is successful, you must attend a citizenship ceremony. At the ceremony you take an oath of allegiance (or a non-religious affirmation) and make apledge to respect the UK's rights, freedoms and laws.

You can choose either the oath (which refers to God) or the affirmation (which does not). Both express the same loyalty to the monarch and to the UK.

The rights of UK residents

The fundamental rights that all UK residents enjoy include:

• Freedom of belief and religion
• Freedom of speech
• Freedom from unfair discrimination
• The right to a fair trial
• The right to join in the election of a government

The responsibilities of UK residents

Living in the UK comes with responsibilities. By becoming a citizen or permanent resident, you agree to:

• Respect and obey the law
• Respect the rights of others, including their right to their own opinions
• Treat others with fairness
• Look after yourself and your family
• Look after the area in which you live and the environment

Taking part in community life

The handbook strongly encourages active participation in your local community. You can do this by:

• Voting in local and national elections (or standing for office)
• Helping with local charities and voluntary organisations
• Helping out at your child's school
• Joining a school's parent-teacher association
• Becoming a school governor
• Doing jury service when called