Life in UK and english requirements for ILR

Hi everyone,

I was granted ILR through the Global Talent route after three years. My wife and two sons will be applying for ILR this month after completing five years in the UK.

I am currently completing the SET(O) applications for all three of them. However, in my sons’ application forms, there are no questions about the Life in the UK Test or the English language requirement, even though they are 18 and 19 years old.

I am surprised because, based on the guidance and other people’s experiences, I understood that they would need to meet both requirements. Is this normal, or could there be something wrong with the forms? Is it possible that the Home Office will request this evidence after submission by email?

Both of my sons have already passed the Life in the UK Test. They also completed their GCSEs and A levels in the UK and achieved high grades in English, including grades 7 and above.

Has anyone had a similar experience or can offer any advice?

Thank you.

drrassem77 wrote: ↑

Mon Aug 03, 2026 9:44 pm

I am surprised because, based on the guidance and other people’s experiences, I understood that they would need to meet both requirements. Is this normal, or could there be something wrong with the forms? Is it possible that the Home Office will request this evidence after submission by email?

Even if there isn't a question about them, you should still be able to upload the documentation for the LITUK test, etc, with the application. That should obviate the need for the Home Office to request it later.

drrassem77 wrote: ↑

Mon Aug 03, 2026 9:44 pm

They also completed their GCSEs and A levels in the UK and achieved high grades in English, including grades 7 and above.

That is not sufficient. They need to have either completed a degree course (even being enrolled in a degree course is not enough) taught in a UK university or they will need to do an approved English language test. The GCSEs and A level results will not count for this purpose.

Thank you. Really appreciate that.