LanguageCert for UK ILR & Citizenship 2026: B1 SELT Requirements

LanguageCert for UK ILR settlement and British citizenship requires passing the SELT Speaking & Listening test at CEFR B1 level — the intermediate level that demonstrates you can handle everyday English situations. For Indian applicants who have lived in the UK on various visa types and are now ready for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or citizenship, the LanguageCert SELT S&L (B1) is an efficient 11–13 minute test that fulfils the language requirement alongside the Life in the UK test. This 2026 guide from EEC — your trusted partner for UK immigration support — covers the complete LanguageCert for UK ILR settlement requirements, citizenship pathways, preparation strategies, and timelines.

ILR / Settlement English Requirement

To apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — also known as settlement — in the UK, you must prove English language ability at CEFR B1 level in Speaking and Listening. This requirement applies regardless of how you entered the UK (spouse visa, work visa, student visa). The LanguageCert SELT S&L (B1) test fulfils this requirement. You also need to pass the Life in the UK test.

B1 S&L Test Details

The LanguageCert SELT S&L at B1 level is the same test format as the A1 and A2 versions — just at a higher English level. Duration: 11–13 minutes. Format: computer-based at an approved SELT centre. Fee: from £160 (~₹16,800). Results: 3–5 working days.

At B1 level, you need to demonstrate ability to discuss familiar topics, give opinions with reasons, describe experiences, and understand standard speech on everyday subjects. This is significantly more demanding than A1 (spouse visa level) — see our speaking and listening tips for level-specific strategies. You may also consider IELTS coaching at EEC as an alternative, or take a Spoken English course to build fundamentals before attempting the B1 test.

Citizenship / Naturalisation Requirements

The English requirement for British citizenship is the same as ILR — CEFR B1 Speaking & Listening. If you already passed the B1 test for your ILR application and the result is still within its validity period, you may not need to retake it for citizenship. However, if your result has expired, you will need a fresh LanguageCert B1 test.

Life in the UK Test

In addition to the English language test, ILR and citizenship applicants must pass the Life in the UK test — a separate computer-based test covering British traditions, history, customs, and values. This is NOT an English test — it tests your knowledge of British culture and society. The two tests are complementary:

B1 vs B2: Which Do You Need?

B1 (Intermediate): Required for ILR/Settlement, Citizenship, Skilled Worker visa, Health & Care Worker visa. For ILR and citizenship, only Speaking & Listening skills are tested.
B2 (Upper Intermediate): Required for Student Route, High Potential Individual visa. All 4 skills tested (Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing).

If you are applying for ILR or citizenship, you need the SELT S&L at B1. If you are a student applying for a Student Route visa, you need the Academic SELT at B2. See which LanguageCert for your UK visa for the complete decision guide, or LanguageCert Academic for Student Route.

Preparation Strategies for B1

B1 is "intermediate" level — you need to demonstrate comfort with everyday English conversations. Key preparation areas:

• Practice discussing everyday topics: Work, hobbies, travel, food, weather, current events, family life, health
• Give opinions with reasons: "I think public transport is important because it reduces pollution. For example, in London..."
• Describe past experiences: "Last year, I visited Scotland. The weather was cold but the scenery was beautiful."
• Handle practical situations: Making appointments, giving directions, explaining problems, making complaints
• Listen to British English: BBC Radio 4, British podcasts, TV programmes — practice understanding various British accents

For comprehensive preparation strategies, read LanguageCert preparation tips. Join EEC's online coaching for expert-guided B1 preparation. Check test centers in India for booking locations, or book a free consultation with EEC's experts.

Timeline from First Visa to ILR

EEC Guidance for ILR & Citizenship

EEC provides end-to-end support for the ILR and citizenship journey. Our visa specialists help with the LanguageCert B1 test, Life in the UK test preparation, ILR application documentation, and citizenship filing. Combine LanguageCert coaching with immigration guidance at the same branch. Book a free consultation today. Explore visa services at EEC, check LanguageCert complete guide, see fee and registration details, or visit study in the UK with EEC. For spouse visa holders planning ILR, see LanguageCert for UK spouse visa. Need financial support? Check education loan for UK or Australia.

“The B1 language test for ILR is the final stepping stone to permanent life in the UK. After years of building your life here, this 11-minute test should not stand in your way. Prepare properly and pass with confidence.”

— EEC UK Immigration Team, EEC Education Consultant

FAQs: LanguageCert for ILR & Citizenship