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British Citizenship & Naturalisation Solicitors
British citizenship is a significant milestone in an individual’s immigration journey, conferring full legal rights and protections.
The process of acquiring citizenship - whether by birth, descent, naturalisation, or registration - can be complex and requires careful consideration of the eligibility, documentation and procedural requirements.
What is British citizenship?
British citizenship is a form of British nationality under the British Nationality Act 1981. It gives you the right to:
- Overseas protection
- Vote in UK referendums and general elections
- Stand for Parliament in the UK
- Work and live in the UK permanently.
Anyone that’s not a UK citizen can apply for British citizenship by following the steps to naturalisation. Going through these steps to get your citizenship is a big commitment so getting expert legal advice will help you put the best possible application together.
Our team will look at your situation and pinpoint any areas that could cause issues with the Home Office. We’ll then work efficiently to help you sort them out, so when the time comes, your application is as strong as possible.
Who can apply for British citizenship?
To apply for British citizenship, you’ll generally need to:
- Have lived in the UK continuously for at least five years
- Have spent less than 450 days outside the UK in the five years before you apply
- Have held Indefinite Leave to Remain for 12 months
- Have spent less than 90 days outside the UK in the last 12 months before you apply
- Be 18 years or older
- Be planning to continue to live in the UK after you get citizenship
- Speak a good level of English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic
- Have a good character with no criminal record and you’re not bankrupt
- Have passed a Life in the UK test.
You’ll need to include various documents in your application to prove you meet these requirements. Our immigration lawyers can help you understand what documents will be accepted by the Home Office and how to get them.
Key requirements and considerations for British citizenship applications
Understanding your route
Whether applying through birth, descent, naturalisation or registration, it is important to understand which route applies to your circumstances and the specific requirements involved.
Eligibility criteria
Requirements vary depending on the route to citizenship.
For naturalisation, applicants typically need to demonstrate lawful residence in the UK (the duration required differs if married to a British citizen), meet the good character requirements and pass the knowledge of language and life in the UK tests.
Supporting documentation
Submitting the required documents is essential which includes proof of identity, residence evidence and referee verification.
Dual nationality
Applicants should consider how dual citizenship may impact their citizenship with other countries.
Passport applications
Once citizenship is granted, applicants must then apply for their first British passport, which has its own set of requirements and procedures, making this a two-staged process.
Avoiding delays and errors
Incomplete or inaccurate applications can lead to delays or refusals. Adhering to all legal and procedural requirements is essential for a smooth process.
Frequently asked questions about British citizenship and naturalisation
Once you’ve gathered all your documents, we’ll put your application together in a format that the Home Office prefers.
The application process takes about four to six months. You can stay in the UK while you wait for a decision and your Indefinite Leave to Remain status will stay the same.
If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to a Citizenship Ceremony where you’ll officially become a British citizen. After this you can apply for a British passport. Our solicitors will guide you through the entire process so you’ll always know what to expect and where you stand.
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