Please see UKBA website for full information on who is eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Citizenship:
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/settlement/
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/britishcitizenship/applying/applicationtypes/naturalisation/kol/esol-with-citizenship/
Most applicants will need to show that they have a knowledge of language and life in the UK , (KOL).
If you are not exempt from the KOL requirement, you must demonstrate a good knowledge of language and life in the UK before you apply for settlement. Most applicants will need to do this by:
ESB Skills for Life qualifications, taught using appropriate citizenship materials at approved and accredited colleges and centres, are recognised by UKBA as evidence for this requirement. Please contact us for advice on suitable language centres in your area.
Language Tests for Spouses: Please note that the new language requirement for spouses does not apply to Indefinite Leave to Remain applications. For spouses who are already in the UK and are only seeking an extension of their stay or seeking leave to remain (that is, permission to stay), there are different rules. A lower standard of English is asked for, and this has to be shown by passing a test from a smaller number of test providers on the Home Office approved-test list. This also applies to spouses who want to come to the UK.
The 'Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK' requirements continue to apply to all applications for Indefinite Leave to Remain, and a valid ESB certificate can be part of this, provided all other requirements are met.
ESOL for Work ESOL for Citizenship ESOL Skills for Life Candidate ID Family Learning ESOL Contextualisation