The UK Home Office has introduced a new rule for eVisa holders taking the Life in the UK Test: a share code is now mandatory for identity verification. This update could affect your citizenship or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application if you don’t follow the steps correctly.
If you’re planning to take the Life in the UK Test, a critical update from the UK Home Office could impact your test day. As the United Kingdom shifts towards a digital immigration system, eVisa holders now face a new mandatory identity verification step. Missing it could mean being turned away at the test centre.
Here’s what’s changed and what you must do to avoid delays or rejection.
What Is the Life in the UK Test?
The Life in the UK Test is a compulsory requirement for individuals applying for:
• British citizenship
• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
• Certain types of long-term UK visas
The test assesses your knowledge of British history, culture, traditions, and laws. It consists of 24 multiple-choice questions, and you need to score at least 75% to pass.
Who Needs to Take the Life in the UK Test?
You’ll need to take the test if you are:
• Applying for naturalisation as a British citizen
• Applying for settlement (ILR)
• Aged between 18 and 65
• Not exempt due to age or certain medical conditions
What is a UK eVisa?
The UK eVisa is a digital immigration status that replaces physical visa documents. If you applied via the:
• EU Settlement Scheme
• UK Immigration: ID Check app
• Or received a digital status confirmation
…you likely have an eVisa.
eVisas are accessed online via your UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) account.
New Test Day Rule for eVisa Holders: Share Code Now Required
The UK immigration system is increasingly embracing digital processes. As a result, the Home Office has introduced a mandatory digital identity verification process specifically for individuals holding an eVisa.
Previously, presenting a passport or a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card was sufficient for most test-takers. However, eVisa holders now need to generate a share code to confirm their identity at the test centre. Failing to do so could prevent you from taking the test.
Here’s how to generate a share code:
1. Log in to your UKVI account
2. Select “Prove your status”
3. Generate a share code
4. Provide this code during check-in at the test centre
Preparing for the Life in the UK Test
The test is based on the official handbook, “Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents.” This handbook covers various aspects of British life, including:
• Values and principles of the UK
• Laws and government
• History
• Culture
• Traditions
• Everyday life
To prepare for the test, it is highly recommended to:
• Thoroughly study the official handbook.
• Utilise online practice tests and resources available on the official website and other reputable platforms.
• Consider taking practice quizzes to assess your understanding of the material.
• Allocate sufficient time for study before your test date.
Why This Matters for UK Citizenship
This update reflects the UK’s broader digital shift in managing immigration records. While more convenient in the long run, it introduces new procedures that test-takers must understand and follow. Ignoring these new rules could seriously delay your path to citizenship, so it’s vital to stay informed and fully prepared.
Final Words
The Life in the UK Test is a key step toward securing your future in the UK. But with the latest identity verification rules for eVisa holders, preparation now includes more than studying. Take a few minutes to double-check your ID, generate your share code, and follow all instructions to ensure a smooth test day experience.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/life-in-the-uk-test-new-rules-evisa-share-code-requirement/