Facebook Instagram Youtube Whatsapp-square
2 Flags Visa Services - UK Immigration Specialists - Logo Transparent
CONTACT US

British Citizenship

Submitting an important and life changing application can feel daunting, especially when you have spent years working toward it. Having the right adviser to support and represent your application is essential to giving you the best possible chance of success.

Understanding British Citizenship

British citizenship grants you the legal right to live permanently in the United Kingdom. As a British citizen, you can:

  • Live, Work, and Study without restrictions
  • Access the National Health Service (NHS) at no cost
  • Apply for a British passport
  • Claim benefits

Unlike Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which can be lost if you remain outside the UK for more than two years, British citizenship is permanent unless revoked under exceptional circumstances, such as posing a serious threat to national security.

Eligibility Criteria for British Citizenship

Under the British Nationality Act, applicants must meet specific requirements to obtain British citizenship through naturalisation. These include:

  • Being at least 18 years old
  • Meeting the required residency period (typically 3 or 5 years, depending on the route)
  • Holding ILR or Settled Status for at least 12 months before applying (except for applicants applying through marriage or civil partnership)
  • Satisfying continuous residence requirements
  • Demonstrating English language proficiency
  • Passing the Life in the UK Test
  • Intending to continue residing in the UK
  • Being of sound mind and understanding the consequences of citizenship
  • Demonstrating good character with no serious criminal offenses or immigration breaches

Pathways to British Citizenship

There are several routes to acquiring British citizenship, depending on individual circumstances:

1. Naturalisation

  • For those with ILR, Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or Indefinite Leave to Enter.
  • Requires a minimum of five years of residence in the UK, with no more than 450 days spent outside the country during that period and no more than 90 days in the 12 months before applying.

2. Citizenship by Descent

  • Applies to individuals born outside the UK to British parents.
  • Typically, citizenship by descent is only passed down one generation, meaning children born abroad to British citizens by descent may not automatically inherit citizenship.

3. Citizenship by Birth

  • Not all individuals born in the UK are automatically British citizens.
  • If born before 1 January 1983, you are likely a British citizen.
  • If born after this date, at least one parent must be a British citizen or settled in the UK at the time of birth.

4. Citizenship through Marriage or Civil Partnership

  • Available to those married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen.
  • Requires at least three years of residence in the UK prior to application.
  • Absence requirements apply: no more than 270 days outside the UK during this period and no more than 90 days in the 12 months before applying.

Mandatory Tests for British Citizenship

Life in the UK Test

  • A multiple-choice exam assessing knowledge of British history, culture, and traditions.
  • Required for applicants unless exempt due to age (under 18 or over 65) or a medical condition.

English Language Requirement

  • Must demonstrate proficiency in English by:
    • Passing an approved English test (CEFR level B1 or higher)
    • Holding a UK degree or equivalent qualification from a majority English-speaking country
  • Exemptions apply for individuals from specified English-speaking nations.

Application Process for British Citizenship

The general process for applying for British citizenship involves the following steps:

1. Complete the Application Form

Choose the appropriate form based on your citizenship route and apply online through the Home Office website.

2. Pay the Application Fee

3. Submit Biometric Information

Attend an appointment at a UKVCAS service point to provide fingerprints and a photograph.

4. Provide Supporting Documents

Upload necessary documents.

5. Home Office Review 

The Home Office may request additional information during the processing period.

6. Decision Notification

A decision is typically made within six months, although complex cases may take longer.

7. Attend a Citizenship Ceremony

If approved, you must attend a ceremony where you will pledge allegiance to the UK and receive your certificate of naturalisation.

Citizenship Ceremony

Upon approval, applicants must attend a citizenship ceremony, which includes:

  • Swearing an Oath or Affirmation of allegiance to the UK
  • Pledging loyalty to the UK’s values and laws
  • Receiving a certificate of naturalisation
  • An optional formal photograph with a local dignitary

Following the ceremony, you will officially be a British citizen and can apply for a British passport.

Decision Timelines

The Home Office typically processes citizenship applications within six months. Straightforward cases may be decided within 1-3 months, while complex applications may take longer.

Contact Us for professional assistance with your British citizenship application.

Contact Us

Contact Information:

One Hub, 3rd Floor, Maitland House, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2JY

07982 375010

Info@2flags.co.uk

Terms and Conditions

Complaints Procedure

Our Fees