Overview
Naturalisation is the process by which non-British citizens can apply to become British citizens. It involves meeting residency and legal requirements and applying to the Home Office.
Criteria for Eligibility
Residency Requirements:
- Living in the UK: You must have lived in the UK for at least 5 years before the date of your application.
- Settled Status: You must have indefinite leave to remain (ILR), settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or permanent residence status.
- Presence in the UK: You must have been physically present in the UK exactly five years before the date the Home Office receives your application.
- Absences: You must not have been absent from the UK for more than 450 days in the 5-year period and no more than 90 days (about 3 months) in the 12 months prior to your application.
Good Character:
- You must have a clean criminal record, including immigration-related offenses.
English Language Proficiency:
- You need to prove your knowledge of English by passing an approved English language test at B1 level or higher, unless you are exempt.
Life in the UK Test:
- You must pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses your knowledge of British customs, traditions, and values.
Intent to Reside:
- You must intend to continue living in the UK, the Crown Dependencies, or the British Overseas Territories.
Application Process:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Proof of identity (passport, travel document).
- Evidence of residency (passport stamps, utility bills, tenancy agreements).
- Proof of ILR or settled status.
- Certificate of passing the Life in the UK Test.
- English language certificate.
- Complete the Application:
- Fill out the online naturalisation application form available on the official UK government website.
- Pay the Fee:
- The current fee for naturalisation is £1,330. There is also an additional £19.20 fee to have your biometric information (fingerprints and photo) taken.
- Biometric Appointment:
- Schedule and attend a biometric appointment to submit your fingerprints and photo.
- Submit Your Application:
- Send your completed application along with all required documents to the Home Office.
- Decision:
- The Home Office will review your application and decide, which usually takes about 6 months.
- Citizenship Ceremony:
- If approved, you must attend a citizenship ceremony and swear an oath of allegiance to the UK. There is a ceremony fee of £80.
Latest Updates (as of August 2024):
Application Fee:The fee for naturalisation remains at £1,330.
Processing Time:The Home Office aims to process applications within 6 months, but delays can occur due to backlogs or incomplete applications.
Life in the UK Test:
There have been no recent changes to the Life in the UK Test requirements.
English Language Test:
Approved testing centers and test formats remain unchanged.
Residency Requirements:
No changes have been made to the residency requirements, including absences from the UK.
FAQ (Frequently asked questions):
Naturalisation is the process through which non-British citizens can apply to become British citizens.
You need to have lived in the UK for at least 5 years and have ILR or settled status for at least 12 months.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a form of permanent residency in the UK.
Passport, proof of residency, ILR or settled status proof, Life in the UK Test certificate, and English language test certificate.
The application fee is £1,330, plus £19.20 for biometric information.
Yes, unless you are exempt due to age or medical reasons.
By passing an approved English language test at B1 level or higher, or by having a degree taught in English.
Yes, but ensure you provide all necessary documents and meet the residency requirements before leaving.
You can reapply, request reconsideration, or appeal if you believe the decision was incorrect.
No more than 450 days (about 1 year 3 months) in the 5 years before your application and no more than 90 days (about 3 months) in the 12 months prior.
Yes, you must attend a citizenship ceremony and swear an oath of allegiance to the UK.
The Home Office usually takes around 6 months to process applications.
Each family member must submit a separate application and meet the individual requirements.
Yes, once you become a British citizen, you can apply for a British passport.
Consider seeking assistance from legal advisors, immigration solicitors, or organisations that provide support for applicants.
For Expert legal advice and assistance, reach out to Imran & Co Solicitors today.
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