In a world where globalization is becoming a reality, the long-term consequences of accepting Great Britain as one’s nationality is a significant issue. Being an ancient country, the UK is very much influenced by its rich past, unique culture, and solid economic base. Nevertheless, you cannot simply decide on British citizenship depending on your convenience. Instead, you need to think it over carefully about whether it’s the right option.
Assessing Your Current Status
Before looking into the differences between British and international citizenship, most importantly you should check your rights and status that you have at the moment. Some of the citizens are already here, living and working in Great Britain, without having to obtain a British passport. It’s crucial to assess:
- Current Rights: Examine the rights you currently enjoy in the UK. These may vary based on your nationality, residence status, or other factors.
- Additional Rights: Consider what additional rights British citizenship would grant you. These privileges are for example voting, free movement of residence, and taking part in services by the government.
- Requirements and Costs: Get familiar with the detailed information about obtaining British citizenship such as the costs, the procedures to follow, and the criteria.
Deciding on British Citizenship: Automatic British Citizenship
On certain occasions, you might happen to be a British citizen and have no idea that. This typically occurs under the following circumstances:
Parental Citizenship
If you had one parent who was a British citizen at the time of your birth, then you may already have citizenship by origin.
Birth in the UK
If you were born in the UK and one of your parents had a settled status, indefinite leave to stay in the UK, or permanent residence at the time of your birth, then you would automatically become a British citizen.
Existing Rights to Live and Work in the UK
It’s critical to ascertain if you are a British national with a right to permanently reside in the UK before applying for citizenship. You might have these rights if:
- This now allows you to apply for a settled status that has already been acquired through the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Now you are to remain indefinitely with ‘indefinite leave to remain’ status.
- You are from Ireland.
- You are a member of the Commonwealth community mandated by the ownable doctrine.
This group of people will be able to inhabit and work in the UK, without the need for granting their British citizenship.
European Union Citizens
If you are from the EU, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, or Liechtenstein and have settled or pre-settled status through the EU Settlement Scheme, you can already live and work in the UK. While British citizenship is an option, it is not mandatory.
Permanent Residence
In the past, individuals often held a ‘document certifying permanent residence.’ However, these documents are no longer valid. If you lack pre-settled or settled status, you may still be able to protect your rights in the UK through a late application to the EU Settlement Scheme.
Late Application to the EU Settlement Scheme
If you missed the original application deadline, which was 30 June 2021, you might still apply with a valid reason. You must have arrived in the UK by 31 December 2020 or applied for a residence card or family permit by the same date.
Family Members’ Eligibility
If your family members wish to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme, they must also have pre-settled or settled status. It’s crucial to check their eligibility to ensure a smooth application process.
Non-EU Citizens
For individuals who are not eligible for the EU Settlement Scheme, applying for a visa may be necessary to live in the UK. Detailed information on visa applications can be found on GOV.UK, including requirements for work, study, or joining family members in the UK.
Indefinite Leave to Remain
If you possess indefinite leave to remain, you can live and work in the UK permanently without the need for British citizenship. However, the option to apply for British citizenship remains available if desired.
Citizenship for Children
If you have a child in the UK, you can apply for a UK passport for your child under specific circumstances:
- You had indefinite leave to remain when your child was born.
- You had settled status when your child was born.
- You were eligible for settled status on 30 June 2021, and your child was born after this date.
- Your child was born between 30 April 2006 and 30 June 2021, and you can provide proof of permanent residence.
If you require assistance in proving permanent residence, consider consulting with an adviser.
Irish Citizens
If you were born in Northern Ireland, you likely hold both British and Irish dual citizenship, even without a UK passport. Individuals with only Irish citizenship retain the right to live and work in the UK permanently without the necessity of British citizenship. However, the option to apply for British citizenship remains open for those who are eligible.
Commonwealth Citizens
For Commonwealth citizens wishing to apply for British citizenship, it is crucial to possess the right to live and work permanently in the UK. This typically entails holding indefinite leave to remain or the ‘right of abode.’
Right of Abode
You may have the ‘right of abode’ if:
- One of your parents had the right of abode.
- You are a woman who married a Commonwealth citizen with the right of abode before 1983.
Further details about individuals who possess the right of abode can be found on GOV.UK.
Birth in a British Colony Before 1983
If you have the right of abode, you might already be a British citizen. It’s advisable to verify your citizenship status on GOV.UK if you are unsure.
Arrival in the UK Before 1973
If you or your parents arrived in the UK before 1973 but lack proof of your right to reside in the UK, you may be eligible for an immigration document through the Windrush scheme. This document can grant you either British citizenship or an immigration document proving your right to live in the UK permanently, such as a ‘biometric residence permit.’ Notably, applying to the Windrush scheme is free, and you are not required to pass the Life in the UK Test or demonstrate English proficiency.
Understanding Your Rights as a British Citizen
Obtaining British citizenship comes with several rights and responsibilities. It’s essential to be aware of these before proceeding:
- British Passport: British citizenship allows you to obtain a British passport, simplifying international travel.
- Voting Rights: As a British citizen, you can participate in elections, granting you a say in the country’s governance.
- Unrestricted Travel: You can leave the UK for as long as you wish without jeopardizing your right to return.
- Citizenship for Children: If your children are born in the UK while you hold indefinite leave to remain, settled status, or permanent residence, they automatically become British citizens.
Voting Rights for Irish and Commonwealth Citizens
If you are an Irish or Commonwealth citizen, you may already have the right to vote in general and local elections. Confirm your eligibility and register to vote on the Electoral Commission website.
Long-Term Travel Implications
For those planning extended periods abroad, your immigration status matters:
- EU Settlement Scheme: You can leave the UK for up to 5 years (4 years for Swiss citizens) without losing settled status from the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Indefinite Leave to Remain: You can be away from the UK for up to 2 years without losing indefinite leave to remain.
However, if your absence exceeds these timeframes, you may lose your ‘right to return.’ Obtaining British citizenship eliminates this concern, allowing you to travel freely.
Legal Consequences
It’s crucial to consider the legal ramifications of your actions while in the UK:
Criminal Offences:
Committing a serious criminal offense with a sentence of at least 12 months, as a non-British citizen, can result in the loss of your status and potential deportation. British citizens, on the other hand, are generally protected from deportation.
Citizenship Application:
If you’ve been found guilty of a serious criminal offense, you are ineligible to apply for British citizenship.
Refugee Status and Humanitarian Protection
Applying for British citizenship can affect your ability to make a ‘family reunion’ application to bring your family to the UK for free. This can potentially increase the difficulty and cost of reuniting with your family. If you have indefinite leave to remain, you retain the option to make a family reunion application instead of pursuing British citizenship.
Dual Citizenship Considerations
Some countries permit dual citizenship, allowing individuals to be citizens of more than one nation simultaneously. However, others do not. It’s essential to investigate whether your current nationality allows dual citizenship. If uncertain, consult your country’s consulate or embassy in the UK for guidance.
Advantages of Dual Citizenship
When you hold dual citizenship, you enjoy the following benefits:
- Living and Working: Dual citizenship grants you the right to live and work in both countries without requiring a visa for travel between them.
- Passport Choice: You can choose which passport to use when traveling.
Potential Dual Citizenship Challenges on How to Deciding on British Citizenship
However, dual citizenship can come with challenges:
- National Service: Some countries may require their citizens to fulfill national service obligations, which you would still need to adhere to if you gain British citizenship.
- Limited Assistance: British citizens may not receive assistance from the British embassy in countries where they hold dual citizenship. This can be crucial in emergencies or legal situations.
Losing Your Original Nationality
If you acquire British citizenship and your original country of citizenship does not allow dual citizenship, you may face several consequences:
- Visa Requirements: You may need a visa to visit your original country.
- Property Ownership: Restrictions may be placed on your ability to own property.
- Return Restrictions: You may not be allowed to return to your original country.
Furthermore, it may be challenging or impossible to regain your original nationality if you relinquish your British citizenship.
Cost Considerations For Deciding on British Citizenship
Obtaining British citizenship involves various expenses:
- Application Fees: The typical cost for adult citizenship applications is £1,330, while children’s applications are £1,012.
- Additional Costs: You may also incur expenses such as the Life in the UK Test fee, fingerprint and photo submission fees, and English proficiency test costs.
- Keep in mind that most of these fees are non-refundable if your application is refused.
Application Process For Deciding on British Citizenship
Applying for British citizenship is a comprehensive process that requires careful preparation:
- Life in the UK Test: Prepare for the Life in the UK Test, which assesses your knowledge of British history, traditions, and everyday life.
- Document Gathering: Collect various documents and evidence, including records of your entry and exit from the UK over the last 5 years.
- Language Proficiency: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to complete a speaking and listening test to demonstrate your English proficiency.
Timing Your Application For Deciding on British Citizenship
After obtaining settled status, indefinite leave to remain, or permanent residence, you usually must wait one year before applying for British citizenship. However, if you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, you can apply immediately upon acquiring your status.
Deciding to pursue British citizenship is significant and requires a thorough understanding of your current status, rights, and responsibilities. While this summary provides useful information, consulting with immigration authorities or legal experts for personalized advice is essential. Acquiring British citizenship offers new opportunities, but it’s important to be well-informed before proceeding.