April 19th, 2025 at 05:41 am

New Life in the UK Test Rules: e-Visa Holders Required to Submit Share Code

The UK Home Office has implemented a crucial update for e-Visa holders taking the Life in the UK Test. Starting now, a share code is mandatory for identity verification. If you do not follow this new requirement, it could impact your citizenship or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application.

If you plan to take the Life in the UK Test, be aware of these changes. The UK is moving towards a digital immigration system, and e-Visa holders must comply with a new identity verification step. Failing to provide the share code could result in being turned away at the test center.

What Is the Life in the UK Test?

The Life in the UK Test is essential for those applying for:

• British citizenship
• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
• Certain long-term UK visas

This test evaluates your knowledge of British history, culture, laws, and traditions. It consists of 24 multiple-choice questions, and you must score at least 75% to pass.

Who Needs to Take the Test?

You will need to take the Life in the UK Test if you are:

• Applying for naturalisation as a British citizen
• Seeking settlement (ILR)
• Aged between 18 and 65
• Not exempt due to age or specific medical conditions

Overview: The UK e-Visa

A UK e-Visa is a digital immigration status that replaces traditional physical visa documents. If you applied through the:

• EU Settlement Scheme
• UK Immigration: ID Check app
• Digital status confirmation
• …you likely hold an e-Visa. You can access your e-Visa online through your UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) account.

New Requirement for Test Day: Share Code

The UK immigration system is increasingly adopting digital processes. Consequently, the Home Office has made a share code necessary for e-Visa holders. Previously, test-takers only needed a passport or a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card.

Now, e-Visa holders must generate a share code to confirm their identity at the test center. Failure to do so may prevent you from taking the test. Here’s how to generate your share code:

• Log in to your UKVI account.
• Select “Prove your status.”
• Generate a share code.
• Present this code during check-in at the test center.

Make sure to follow all specific instructions during your test booking. Some centers may require you to message the code directly.

Accepted Identification Documents for Test Day

All candidates must bring valid identification that matches the one used during registration. Acceptable IDs include:

No photocopies, expired documents, or screenshots are allowed.

Final Checklist Before Test Day

To avoid being turned away, follow this checklist:

• Ensure your name on the ID matches your test booking.
• Carry an original and valid ID document.
• If you have an e-Visa, log in to your UKVI account to generate your share code.
• Bring the same document used during registration.

Neglecting these steps could result in losing your test slot and delaying your citizenship or settlement process.

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:

• UK values and principles
• Laws and government
• History
• Culture and traditions
• Everyday life

To prepare effectively, you should:

• Study the official handbook thoroughly.
• Use online practice tests and resources from reputable platforms.
• Take practice quizzes to assess your knowledge.
• Allocate enough study time before your test date.

Why This Matters

This update reflects the UK’s shift towards digital immigration management. While it simplifies processes in the long run, it introduces new requirements that test-takers must understand. Ignoring these changes could delay your path to citizenship.

Final Words

The Life in the UK Test is a crucial step toward securing your future in the UK. With the new identity verification rules for e-Visa holders, preparation now includes checking your ID and generating your share code. Ensure you follow all instructions for a smooth test day experience.