British Citizenship by Registration


What is British Citizenship by Registration

British citizenship by registration is a route under UK nationality law that allows certain individuals, most commonly children under the age of 18, to apply for British citizenship by entitlement or discretion, rather than by naturalisation.

In limited circumstances, registration may also be available to adults under specific statutory provisions.


Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for British citizenship by registration depends on the specific statutory route relied upon. Common categories include the following.


Children born in the UK

Children born in the UK who did not automatically acquire British citizenship at birth may be eligible for registration if:

  • A parent later becomes a British citizen or settled in the UK; or
  • The child has lived in the UK for a continuous period of 10 years, subject to residence and absence requirements.


Children born outside the UK

Children born outside the UK may be eligible for registration where:

  • parent is a British citizen otherwise than by descent and the statutory requirements for registration are met; or
  • Registration is available at the discretion of the Home Secretary, taking into account the child’s circumstances.


Other registration routes

Certain adults may be eligible for registration based on:

  • Historic nationality provisions;
  • Long residence under specific statutory provisions or discretion; or
  • Other routes specifically provided for under nationality legislation.

Eligibility is assessed strictly by reference to the relevant statutory provision, and the requirements vary significantly depending on the route relied upon.


Good Character Requirement

For applicants aged 10 or over, the Home Office will assess whether the applicant meets the good character requirement. This assessment may take into account criminal history, immigration compliance, and overall conduct.

The requirement applies differently to children and adults and is considered in light of the applicant’s age and circumstances.


Application Process

Step 1: Eligibility assessment and route identification

Before applying, it is essential to identify the correct registration route under nationality law. Supporting documents must be prepared to evidence identity, nationality, residence, and parental status, as applicable.

Typical supporting documents may include:

  • The applicant’s passport and birth certificate
  • Evidence of the parents’ nationality and immigration status
  • Proof of residence in the UK, where relevant
  • Any documents required by the specific registration route relied upon

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

Applications for registration are submitted online to the Home Office. The relevant application fee must be paid in full at the time of submission.

Step 3: Biometric enrolment (where required)

Applicants may be required to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a facial photograph, depending on age and application type.

Step 4: Decision and citizenship outcome

If the application is approved, the applicant will be registered as a British citizen.

Children are not usually required to attend a citizenship ceremony. Where a ceremony is required, citizenship takes legal effect upon completion of the ceremony and issuance of the registration certificate.


Processing Time

Applications for British citizenship by registration are typically decided within several months, subject to the nature of the application and Home Office workload. Although processing times may vary depending on the complexity of the case, the route relied upon, and Home Office workload.


Application Fees

  • For most child registration applications, the current Home Office fee is £1,214 per child. If a child turns 18 during the application process, an additional £130 citizenship ceremony fee may be payable.
  • For adult registration routes, the Home Office fee is currently £1,446, with an additional citizenship ceremony charge where required.

All Home Office fees are subject to change in accordance with current nationality fee regulations. Applicants should budget for any additional costs such as biometric enrolment, translations, or other supporting services.



Speak to LNvisa

Applications for British citizenship by registration can be legally complex, particularly where entitlement and discretion overlap, or where multiple routes may apply.

LNvisa provides tailored nationality advice to families and individuals, ensuring that the correct registration route is identified and that applications are prepared in line with current Home Office guidance.

If you would like professional guidance on British citizenship by registration, or wish to assess a child’s or family member’s eligibility before applying, our team would be pleased to assist.