British Citizenship by Naturalisation



What is British Citizenship by Naturalisation

British citizenship by naturalisation is the route by which non-British nationals who have lawfully lived in the UK for a qualifying period may apply to become British citizens. This route is commonly used by individuals who hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status, and who meet the residence, good character, and language requirements set out under British nationality law.

Successful applicants gain the right to live in the UK without immigration restrictions and may apply for a British passport.


Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for British citizenship by naturalisation, an applicant must meet all of the following requirements.


Immigration status

  • Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settled status, or qualifying permanent residence (where applicable).
  • In most cases, have held ILR or settled status for at least 12 months at the date of application.
  • This 12-month requirement does not apply where the applicant is married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen.


Residence requirements

  • Have lawfully resided in the UK for a qualifying period, typically:
  • 5 years, or
  • 3 years, where the applicant is married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen.
  • Not have exceeded the permitted absence limits during the qualifying period.
  • Have been physically present in the UK at the start of the qualifying residence period.


Good character requirement

  • Be of good character, taking into account immigration history, criminal records, financial compliance, and overall conduct.


Language and knowledge of life in the UK

  • Meet the English language requirement, unless exempt.
  • Pass the Life in the UK Test, unless exempt.

Exemptions may apply based on age or long-term medical conditions and must be supported by appropriate evidence.


Application Process

Step 1: Eligibility assessment and document preparation

Before applying, applicants should confirm that they meet all nationality requirements, including residence, absences, and good character. Supporting documents must be prepared to evidence lawful residence, immigration status, and compliance with the rules.

Typical supporting documents may include:

  • A valid passport and any previous passports covering the qualifying residence period
  • Evidence of Indefinite Leave to Remain or settled status
  • Records of UK residence and absences, such as travel history or employment records
  • Evidence of English language ability, where required
  • Life in the UK Test pass notification
  • Where applicable, documents relating to marriage or civil partnership to a British citizen

All documents must be genuine and, where not in English or Welsh, accompanied by a certified translation.

Step 2: Online application and payment of fees

The application must be submitted online to the Home Office via the UKVI system. The citizenship application fee must be paid in full at the time of submission.

Step 3: Biometric appointment

Applicants must attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a facial photograph as part of the application process.

Step 4: Decision and citizenship ceremony

Once the application is assessed, successful applicants will receive an approval decision. Citizenship is only granted after attending a citizenship ceremony, at which the applicant makes an oath or affirmation and receives a certificate of naturalisation.


Processing Time

Naturalisation applications are typically decided within around 6 months, although processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances and Home Office workload.


Application Fees

For adult applications, the current Home Office fees for British citizenship by naturalisation are:

  • £1,605 – Naturalisation application fee
  • £130 – Citizenship ceremony fee

Total payable: £1,735

The citizenship ceremony fee is usually paid as part of the application process.

Additional fees may apply for biometric enrolment, English language tests, the Life in the UK Test, or document translation services. All fees are subject to change in accordance with Home Office regulations.

The fees set out above apply to adult applications by naturalisation only.

Applications for children under the age of 18 are made by registration and are subject to a separate Home Office fee.


Speak to LNvisa

Every British citizenship application is assessed on its own facts. Residence history, absences, and good character considerations can all have a significant impact on the outcome.

LNvisa provides tailored immigration advice to individuals and families, taking into account their immigration history and long-term plans in the UK.

If you would like professional guidance on your British citizenship by naturalisation application, or wish to assess your eligibility before applying, our team would be pleased to assist.