As a British citizen, you can live and work in the UK without any immigration restrictions. This page guides you through the naturalisation process, including eligibility pathways depending on your relationship to a British person, residency history, and immigration history.
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- Adults married to British citizens: eligible after 3 years in the UK and holding ILR or settled status—no 12-month waiting period.
- Other adults: eligible after 5 years of residency, with an additional 12 months post-ILR before applying.
- Children: may qualify via birth, extended childhood residence, or through parental settlement.
- You must also meet language, good character, and Life in the UK test requirements.
- Recent updates: Since February 2025, persons who entered via irregular routes—like small boats—may be barred outright.
Adult Applications
Applicant Type | Residency Requirement | Absence Limits | Waiting Period After ILR |
Married to a British citizen | 3 continuous years in the UK | ≤270 days in 3 years; ≤90 in last year | No 12-month wait—the route is immediate |
Not married to a British citizen | 5 continuous years in the UK | ≤450 days in 5 years; ≤90 in last year | Must wait 12 months post-ILR before applying |
Additional General Requirements:
- Age 18+
- Good Character: No serious criminality and adherence to immigration rules.
- Language & Citizenship Test: Proficiency in English (or Welsh/Scottish Gaelic), and passing the Life in the UK test.
- Intent to Reside: Demonstrate intent to continue living in the UK.GOV.UK
Child Citizenship Applications
- British by Descent: A child born abroad when a parent is a British citizen otherwise than by descent may automatically qualify for citizenship (can apply directly for a passport).
- 10-Year UK Residency (Child Born in UK): A child born in the UK who has spent the first 10 years of their life there with no more than 90 days outside may register as a British citizen, provided they are of good character.
- Settled Parent—Child Lived in UK Five Years: If both the child and at least one parent have been settled (e.g. ILR) for 5 years, the child may be registered.
Good Character Requirement & Recent Policy Changes
- Stricter Criminality Rules: As of July 31, 2023, any applicant with a prison sentence of 12 months or more is automatically disqualified from naturalisation.GOV.UK
- Irregular Entry Ban: Starting February 10, 2025, anyone who entered the UK illegally—such as by boat or in hidden vehicles—is normally refused citizenship, regardless of how long they’ve been here.GOV.UK
- Impact on Refugees: This change is being legally challenged by asylum seekers who arrived as children but now face potential exclusion.
Real-World Tips & FAQs from Applicants
- Employment Status: Being unemployed does not disqualify you from citizenship—being employed or receiving benefits is not part of eligibility.
- Documentation for Self-Employed Applicants: Bank statements, council tax bills, or official correspondence help demonstrate presence in lieu of employment letters.
- Updating Records Post-Citizenship: After ceremony, update your details with HMRC and council, return your ILR card, and only use your British passport onward.
- Minor Referrals: A minor, non-recent offense like speeding points can likely be outweighed with context and supporting statements—case-by-case discretion applies.
Why Apply for British Citizenship?
- No immigration restrictions – you can live, study, and work freely in the UK.
- Apply for a British passport – one of the most powerful passports worldwide.
- Full political rights – including voting in general elections and standing for office.
- Security for your family – your children may be British automatically, or you can register them.
- Travel freedoms – easier visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries.
Need Help with British Citizenship?
Get clear, practical advice from a team that listens and delivers results. Contact us today to get started.
Application Process
- Check eligibility – confirm if you meet the residence, status, and good character rules.
- Prepare documents – typically includes:
- Passport(s) covering residence period.
- Biometric residence permit (if applicable).
- Evidence of settled status or ILR.
- Proof of absences (travel records).
- English test certificate & Life in the UK pass certificate.
- Apply online via the Home Office website.
- Submit biometrics at a UKVCAS service point.
- Wait for decision – typically 3–6 months, though delays can occur.
- Attend a citizenship ceremony if approved. You will receive a certificate of naturalisation or registration.
- Apply for a British passport.
Fees (as of 2025)
- Naturalisation application: £1,630
- Registration (child): £1,214 (A fee exemption can be applied in certain cases where the parents are not in the position to afford the fee)
- Citizenship ceremony: £80
- Life in the UK test: £50
- English language test: around £150 (varies by provider)
(Fees are subject to annual Home Office updates)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Am I eligible to apply for British citizenship by naturalisation?
To apply for British citizenship by naturalisation, you must have held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status for at least 12 months and have lived in the UK lawfully for a minimum of five years. You cannot have spent more than 450 days outside the UK during this time, and no more than 90 days in the last 12 months. You also need to pass the Life in the UK Test, meet the English language requirement, and demonstrate “good character.” Spouses or civil partners of British citizens can apply immediately after obtaining ILR.
How can ICONIQ Solicitors help with a British citizenship application?
ICONIQ Solicitors provide expert legal advice for British citizenship applications, ensuring you meet eligibility criteria such as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), residence limits, and the Life in the UK Test. We assess your documentation, identify risks, and prepare a strong application. If your case has complexities like excessive absences or prior refusals, we offer strategic solutions and represent you in correspondence or appeals, aiming to streamline the process and enhance your chances of approval.
What residence/absence rules apply?
To apply for British citizenship by naturalisation, you must adhere to specific residence and absence rules. For the standard five-year route, you need to have lived in the UK for at least five years, with a maximum of 450 days absent and 90 days in the last 12 months. Absences are counted as full days outside the UK, excluding departure and return days. Exceeding these limits may lead the Home Office to exercise discretion in exceptional circumstances, provided there is strong justification and supporting evidence.
Do I need ILR/PR before applying?
To apply for British citizenship by naturalisation, you typically need to hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settlement. Most applicants must have held ILR or Settlement for at least 12 months and meet criteria like residence limits, passing the Life in the UK Test, and proving English proficiency. Without ILR or Settlement, your application will be invalid.
What documents and referees are required?
To apply for British citizenship by naturalisation, you need to submit several documents and provide two referees who meet Home Office criteria. They confirm your identity and character, so choosing qualified referees is essential for your application.
How long does the process take and can I hold dual nationality?
Acquiring British citizenship through naturalisation takes approximately 3 to 6 months from the application date and biometric information, followed by a citizenship ceremony if approved. The UK permits dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your original nationality.