British Citizenship & Passport
British citizenship grants individuals the right to live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions, along with the ability to apply for a British passport for international travel. To obtain citizenship, applicants typically go through a process called naturalisation, which includes meeting residency requirements and passing a test about British life. The application involves filling out forms, providing documents, and possibly attending an interview. Once granted citizenship, individuals can apply for a passport, which requires submitting an application form and payment. This status opens up opportunities for travel and full participation in UK life.
Expert Guidance on British Citizenship & Passports
We have received many inquiries from our clients about British citizenship. If you are a foreign national living in the United Kingdom and have settled status, you might be considering applying to become a British citizen through the process of Naturalisation. This means you want to officially become a part of the UK and enjoy all the rights and benefits that come with citizenship.
The Naturalisation process allows you to live and work in the UK without any restrictions. To apply, you need to meet certain requirements, such as having lived in the UK for a specific amount of time, being of good character, and having a good understanding of English. Additionally, you will need to pass a test about life in the UK, which covers topics like British history, culture, and government.
Once you fulfill all the requirements and submit your application, you will receive a decision. If approved, you will be invited to attend a ceremony where you will officially become a British citizen. This also means you can apply for a British passport, giving you the freedom to travel and return to the UK without any issues.
Our Key Highlights
Naturalisation Applications
You must satisfy the following criteria:
- You must be over 18 years old.
- You must meet the “Good Character” requirements.
- You do not have serious criminal convictions.
- You meet sound mind requirement.
- You’ve been previously granted Indefinite Leave to Remain or Permanent Residence Card.
- You’ve passed ‘Life in the UK’ test.
- You meet the English language requirement.
- You must meet the requirements for the time spent in the UK.
- You will continue to live in the UK.
When Can I Apply for a British Passport
Once you’ve obtained your naturalisation certificate, you will be eligible to make an application for a British passport.
You can apply for a British passport once you’ve officially become a British citizen. This usually means completing the naturalisation process, where you’ll be granted citizenship. After receiving your citizenship certificate, you’ll be able to apply for your passport. Make sure you have all your important documents ready, like your citizenship certificate, proof of identity, and any other required paperwork. If you were born to a British parent, you might be able to apply directly for your passport without needing to go through the naturalisation process. Remember, it’s always good to double-check the guidelines to ensure you meet all the requirements before applying.
When Can I Apply for British Citizenship as an EEA National
You become eligible to apply for British citizenship 12 months after you’ve been granted Permanent Residence status in the UK. It’s important to make sure you haven’t been out of the UK for more than 90 days during this 12-month period. This shows that you have maintained a consistent presence in the country, which is a key requirement.
Throughout your time in the UK, you must have been actively exercising your ‘Treaty rights.’ This means you should have been working, being self-employed, studying, or being self-sufficient during your stay. These activities demonstrate your ongoing connection to the UK and your contribution to society. It’s essential to have the proper documentation to prove your activities during this period, as this will support your application for citizenship.
Process to Apply for British Citizenship
Check Your Eligibility:
- Ensure you’ve lived in the UK for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a British citizen).
- You must have “Indefinite Leave to Remain” (ILR) or settled status for at least 12 months.
Prepare Your Documents:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Proof of ILR or settled status
- Proof of residency for the last 5 years (bank statements, utility bills)
- English language certificate or degree taught in English
- Life in the UK test certificate
Pass the ‘Life in the UK Test’:
- The test covers British traditions, history, and culture.
- Book the test online and prepare in advance.
Complete the Application Form:
- Use the form AN for most adult applications.
- Fill out all sections carefully and truthfully.
Pay the Application Fee:
- The fee is £1,630 (subject to change), and you can pay online.
Submit Your Application:
- Apply online or by post. Most people use the online service for faster processing.
- Upload all required documents.
Attend a Biometric Appointment:
- You’ll receive an invitation to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Wait for a Decision:
- The decision can take 3-6 months. You will receive a letter with the outcome.
Attend a Citizenship Ceremony:
- If approved, you must attend a ceremony within 3 months, where you’ll receive your certificate of British citizenship.
| Step | What You Need to Do |
|---|---|
| Check Eligibility | 5 years residence, ILR/settled status |
| Prepare Documents | Passport, ILR proof, residency, language certificate |
| Pass ‘Life in the UK Test’ | Book and prepare for the test |
| Complete Application Form | Use form AN |
| Pay Application Fee | £1,630 (subject to change) |
| Submit Application | Online or by post, with all documents |
| Attend Biometric Appointment | Provide fingerprints and a photo |
| Wait for Decision | Takes 3-6 months |
| Attend Citizenship Ceremony | Receive your certificate |