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.
- 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.
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)