Thinking of applying for your British Citizenship? Let Abbleys Solicitors guide you through everything you need to know.
Becoming a British citizen is a significant milestone in life. For many, it represents security, stability and the ability to fully participate in life in the UK. From voting in general elections to applying for a British passport, obtaining citizenship is a massively important issue.
However, British citizenship is not granted automatically in most cases and, depending on an applicant’s personal circumstances, the rules can be complex.
Here’s a handy guide explaining the main routes to gaining British citizenship, the key requirements you must meet, the costs involved and what you can expect during the application process.
Routes to British Citizenship
There are several different ways to becoming a British citizen. The route available to you will depend on a range of factors, such as your place of birth, your immigration status and your family background.
If You Were Born in the UK
Being born in the UK does not automatically make you a British citizen. Your citizenship status depends on when you were born and your parents’ circumstances at the time of your birth.
In some cases, you may be eligible to apply, even if you’re not automatically granted citizenship at birth. This often applies where a parent later becomes settled in the UK or where specific residency requirements are met.
If you are Married to a British Citizen
If you are married to, or in a civil partnership with, a British citizen you may be eligible to apply for citizenship after living in the UK for three years. Additionally, you will need to have been granted Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or you have settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
If you have Indefinite Leave to Remain
Many people apply for British citizenship after obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Typically, you can apply for ILR after living in the UK for five years (depending on your visa category). Once you have ILR, you must wait 12 months before you can apply for citizenship, unless you are married to a British citizen, in which case you can apply immediately after being granted ILR.
If you are an Irish Citizen
Irish citizens have a slightly different pathway available. Generally, you must have lived in the UK for five years before applying for British citizenship.
EU Settlement Scheme Routes
If you have status under the EU Settlement Scheme, your route to citizenship depends on whether you hold ‘settled’ or ‘pre-settled’ status.
Settled status: You must usually wait 12 months from the time you receive settled status before applying for citizenship (unless you’re married to a British citizen).
Pre-settled status: This applies if you:
Other Routes to Citizenship
There are additional, more specific, routes which may apply if:
Commonwealth citizens may also be eligible under the Windrush Scheme if they or their parents arrived in the UK before 1973 and have lived here continuously.
The Life in the UK Test
Applicants for British citizenship must pass the Life in the UK Test. This test assesses your knowledge of British traditions, history and customs.
You will be tested only on information from the official Guide for New Residents and must score 75% or more to pass. Those who are under 18, are aged 65 or over, who have already passed it or have a long-term physical or mental health condition (which must be confirmed with medical evidence) don’t need to take the test.
The Good Character Requirement
If you are aged 10 or over, you must meet the “good character requirement”. This means you must have respected UK laws and demonstrated your regard for the rights and freedoms of British citizens.
The Home Office will consider a wide range of factors, including:
Applicants who have received a custodial sentence of 12 months or more – or consecutive sentences totalling 12 months or more – will usually be refused.
Does a Criminal Record Affect Your Application?
Having a criminal record does not automatically mean your application will be refused. The Home Office will assess factors such as:
However, your application is likely to be refused if you:
Fees and Processing Times
The current government fee for British citizenship is £1,735. This includes a £130 citizenship ceremony fee.
Applications are usually decided within six months, although some cases can take longer. If your application is likely to exceed six months, you should be notified before that time has passed.
Process and Documentation
Once it’s been confirmed that you’re eligible for British citizenship, the next step is to submit your application. Although the process is usually completed online, it is important to prepare your submission carefully to avoid delays or risk it being refused on a technicality.
Step 1: Submit the Online Application
You will need to provide detailed information about your immigration and employment history, any time you’ve spent outside the UK and any criminal convictions. Accuracy is essential as any inconsistencies with the details supplied in previous visa or settlement applications may affect the outcome.
You must pay the application fee when submitting the form.
Step 2: Provide Biometrics
After applying, you will be asked to book an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre. At this appointment, you will provide your fingerprints, a photograph and your signature. You will also need to upload or submit your supporting documents.
The documents required vary depending on your circumstances, but commonly include:
Step 3: Wait for a Decision
Most applications are decided within six months, although complex cases can take longer. The Home Office will contact you if further information is required.
If your application is approved, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony at your local council. You officially become a British citizen on the date of the ceremony, where you will take an oath or affirmation of allegiance and receive your certificate of naturalisation.
