If you’re ready to make the UK your permanent home, applying for British citizenship is an exciting step. This guide explains the process of applying for British citizenship, including the requirements, documents needed, fees, and what to expect after you apply.
Eligibility for British Citizenship
Before you apply, you need to check if you’re eligible for British citizenship. You may be eligible if you:
- Have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settled Status (e.g., EUSS Settled Status).
- Were born in the UK (but may need to apply for registration, depending on your parents’ status).
- Are married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen?
- Have a British parent but was born outside the UK.
- Are you a Commonwealth citizen, stateless, or hold another form of British nationality?
If you have ILR or Settled Status, you must meet the following requirements to apply:
- You’ve held ILR or Settled Status for at least 12 months.
- You haven’t spent over 450 days outside the UK in the last 5 years, and no more than 90 days in the last year.
- You haven’t broken any UK immigration laws.
- You’ve lived in the UK for 5 years before applying.
- You can prove your knowledge of English and pass the Life in the UK Test.
- You intend to stay in the UK.
- You are over 18 and of good character.
To check if you’re eligible, or to discuss your situation in detail, it’s helpful to speak with an immigration expert at Law and Visas.
Documents You’ll Need
When applying for British citizenship, you’ll need to provide various documents. Here’s a list of what you may need:
- Your passport or other identity documents.
- Proof of ILR or Settled Status (e.g., biometric residence permit).
- Evidence of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS certificate).
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate.
- Proof of residency (e.g., utility bills, bank statements).
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate (if applying through marriage).
- Payslips or a letter from your employer to prove National Insurance contributions.
- Biometric information (fingerprints and photos).
Make sure all your documents are up-to-date and correct to avoid delays.
Applying for British Citizenship
You can apply for British citizenship by naturalization or registration, depending on your situation. The process is mainly done online, but you can also complete the AN form if you prefer to apply by post.
When filling out the form, you’ll need to provide:
- Personal details like your name, address, and date of birth.
- Information about your immigration status and how long you’ve lived in the UK.
- Employment and travel history.
- Family details and information about dependents.
- Confirmation of your English language skills and Life in the UK Test result.
It’s important to double-check everything before submitting your application. Errors or missing information can delay your process.
Fees for British Citizenship
As of July 2024, the application fees are:
- Naturalisation – £1,630
- Registration – £1,481
- Ceremony fee – £130
- Children under 18 applying to register – £1,214
You can pay by credit/debit card or cheque. After paying, you’ll need to book an appointment at a UKVCAS center to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photo). You’ll also need to upload or bring supporting documents.
Life in the UK Test
Before applying, you must pass the Life in the UK Test, which checks your knowledge of British history, culture, and laws. The test has 24 multiple-choice questions, and you need to score 75% or higher to pass.
Study the official Life in the UK handbook and take practice tests online to prepare.
Interview and Decision
In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview. This happens if the Home Office has questions about your application or needs more information. If you use Law and Visas, we’ll work to ensure everything is in order and try to avoid an interview.
After you submit your application, the Home Office will take up to 6 months to decide. If you’re approved, you’ll be invited to a citizenship ceremony where you’ll take an oath of allegiance and receive your certificate of British citizenship.
If your application is refused, you’ll be told why and given instructions on how to challenge the decision.
FAQs
1. What are the eligibility requirements for British citizenship in 2024?
To be eligible, you must meet residency requirements, hold ILR or Settled Status, pass the English language and Life in the UK tests, and be of good character.
2. What documents do I need for my application?
You’ll need your passport, proof of ILR or Settled Status, Life in the UK Test pass certificate, proof of residency, and other supporting documents. The exact list depends on your situation.
3. How long does the application process take?
The process usually takes around 6 months, but it can vary depending on your circumstances.
4. What if my application is denied?
If denied, you’ll get reasons for the refusal and information on how to challenge the decision.
5. Can I apply if I have a criminal record?
You must declare any criminal convictions. Minor offenses may not stop your application, but serious convictions could lead to refusal.
Applying for British citizenship is an important step, but with the right information and documents, it can be a smooth process. If you have questions or need help with your application, Law and Visas is here to guide you every step of the way.
