British Citizenship

British Citizenship Becoming a British citizen is a major milestone that offers permanent security, full rights, and a sense of belonging in the UK. If you’ve lived in the UK for several years and meet the eligibility requirements, applying for British citizenship may be your next step. This guide covers everything you need to know, from eligibility and documents to processing times, fees, and the benefits of holding UK citizenship.
Request a call back from our Advisors

What is British citizenship?

British citizenship is the legal status of being a full citizen of the United Kingdom. It allows you to live, work, study, and travel freely without immigration restrictions. Once you become a British citizen, you are entitled to:

  • Apply for a British passport
  • Vote in UK elections
  • Access public services and benefits
  • Travel freely as a UK national
  • Pass your citizenship to your children (in most cases)
There are multiple routes to becoming a British citizen, with the most common being naturalization, especially for those who’ve lived in the UK for several years under a visa or permanent residence.

British Citizenship Eligibility Requirements

To apply for British citizenship through naturalization, you must meet the following general requirements:

  • Be aged 18 or over
  • Have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Settled Status, or permanent residence
  • Have lived in the UK for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a British citizen)
  • Not have spent more than 450 days outside the UK in the last 5 years (or 270 days if married to a British citizen)
  • Not have spent more than 90 days outside the UK in the last 12 months
  • Pass the Life in the UK Test
  • Meet the English language requirement
  • Be of good character (e.g., no serious criminal record or immigration violations)

You’ll need to submit official documents proving residency, legal status, and other personal details to support your application.

Routes to British Citizenship

There are different routes available depending on your situation. Some of the most common paths include:

  • Naturalisation after 5 years in the UK with ILR or Settled Status
  • Naturalisation after 3 years if you’re married to a British citizen
  • Citizenship for children born in the UK to non-British parents (if the parents are now settled)
  • Registration as a British citizen (for certain stateless individuals or people born before 1983 to British mothers)
  • Citizenship by descent if you were born outside the UK to a British parent

Each route has different conditions, so make sure to check the specific path that applies to you.

British Citizenship Application and Processing Times

You can apply for British citizenship online or by post, but online is generally faster and more secure. Once submitted, your application follows this process:

  • Biometric enrolment at a UKVCAS centre
  • Document review and verification
  • Decision by the Home Office
  • Citizenship ceremony invitation (if approved)

Processing Time:

  • Most applications are decided within 6 months
  • Delays may occur if documents are missing or further checks are needed

Citizenship Ceremony:

If approved, you’ll receive an invitation to attend a citizenship ceremony within 3 months. You must attend to officially become a British citizen.

Life in the UK Test & English Requirement

To become a British citizen, you need to show that you understand British life, values, and language. Two key requirements are:

1. Life in the UK Test

  • A 45-minute multiple-choice test covering UK history, customs, laws, and culture
  • Taken at an official test centre
  • Required for most adult applicants

2. English Language Proficiency

You must prove your ability to speak, read, and understand English by:

  • Passing an approved English test (at CEFR level B1 or higher)
  • Holding a degree taught in English
  • Being a citizen of a majority English-speaking country (e.g., USA, Australia)
Some exemptions apply, particularly for older applicants or those with medical conditions.

British Citizenship Fees and Additional Costs

Applying for British citizenship involves several key costs. Make sure to budget for the following:

1. Application Fee

Applying for British citizenship involves several key costs. Make sure to budget for the following:

  • Adult naturalisation: £1,630
  • Child registration: £1,214

2. Biometric Enrolment Fee

  • Around £19.20, paid during the booking of your biometric appointment

3. Biometric Enrolment Fee

  • £50, booked online through the official site

4. English Language Test Fee

  • Around £150–£200, depending on provider

5. Citizenship Ceremony

  • Free if booked by the local council (private ceremonies may have an added charge)

All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

Rights and Benefits of British Citizenship

Once granted, British citizenship gives you full legal rights and responsibilities in the UK. These include:

1. What You Can Do:

  • Apply for a British passport
  • Vote in all UK elections and referendums
  • Access public services, including healthcare and social benefits
  • Live and work without immigration restrictions
  • Pass citizenship to children born outside the UK

2. What You Cannot Do:

  • Hold citizenship in certain countries that do not allow dual nationality (check your home country’s laws)
  • Reapply for citizenship if you give it up voluntarily

You are also expected to uphold UK laws and values as a responsible citizen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for British citizenship if I have settled status?
Yes. If you’ve held Settled Status for at least 12 months, you’re eligible, assuming you meet other requirements.
No. The UK allows dual citizenship, but check if your home country does too.
Yes, but your current visa or status must remain valid during that time.
Not typically, but further checks or clarifications may be requested in some cases.
You must wait 12 months after getting ILR or settled status unless you’re married to a British citizen.
You’ll be invited to a citizenship ceremony, where you’ll take an oath and officially become a British citizen.
Quick Links
How Can We Help
If You need any helps, Please feel free to Contact Us
Brochure
Discover all the details in our informative brochure.
Download PDF

Get In Touch

MESSAGE US
CHAT WITH US

Crown Visa is dedicated exclusively to helping clients secure UK visa approvals. Our proven track record reflects our expertise and in-depth knowledge of the UK immigration system. Whether you’re an employer seeking skilled workers from abroad or an individual wishing to reunite with family in the UK, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.