LONDON — On Tuesday, a British woman acknowledged her involvement in committing fraudulent activities related to the U.K. citizenship test. Josephine Maurice, aged 61, confessed at Snaresbrook Crown Court to impersonating candidates through disguises such as wigs for the Life in the U.K. Test on behalf of 13 individuals.
Adopting various disguises, she impersonated actual applicants in order to successfully complete the tests between June 2022 and August 2023, according to the Home Office. Authorities noted her strategic choices in selecting different disguises and spreading out test locations throughout the country to prevent detection.
Phillip Parr, an immigration enforcement officer for the Home Office, commented, “Evidence suggests this individual had a premeditated strategy to avoid being caught, involving thorough planning to choose disguises and test centers that best served her purpose.” Financial motives are believed to be the driving force behind these acts.
The Life in the U.K. Test, consisting of 24 questions, assesses one’s knowledge of British culture, principles, and history, which is essential for acquiring permanent residency or citizenship in the U.K.
Appearing via video link from Bronzefield Prison, Maurice also admitted to conspiring with accomplices to engage in fraudulent activities, in addition to possessing two individuals’ provisional driving licenses.
Her sentencing is scheduled for May 20.
