Summary

From 1st November 2005 and endorsed by the “Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act” of November 2002, the British Government took an unprecedented series of steps on the issue of immigration in the United Kingdom1. Those residents intending to apply for British citizenship had to, among other requirements, demonstrate “sufficient” knowledge of one of its official languages and also of its society. To do this they had to pass an exam in English on subjects relating to life in the United Kingdom, its institutions, customs and so forth. At the same time the exam probes the candidate’s knowledge of the language and the British way of life. It is held in English, though it is also available in Scottish Gaelic and Welsh. With effect from April 2007 the prior exam requirement was also extended to those applying for indefinite leave to remain in the country. And even more importantly, the law introduced the essential requirement of taking part in a “Citizenship Ceremony” to obtain British nationality2. Would it be possible for us in Spain to learn from the British experience and apply these or similar measures?