If you’re contemplating applying for British citizenship, our dedicated team of specialists in British citizenship will offer first-rate immigration advice and representation to help you achieve your goal of becoming a British citizen.

British citizenship and nationality

To become a British citizen, you’ll usually need to apply for naturalisation.

To be eligible, you must meet certain requirements, including:

  • Being at least 18 years old.
  • Having lived in the UK for a certain period of time (usually five years).
  • Being of good character.
  • Passing the Life in the UK test.
  • Meeting the English language requirements.

There may be additional requirements depending on your individual circumstances, such as whether you have any criminal convictions or have been absent from the UK for extended periods of time.

If you’re considering applying for British citizenship, it may be helpful to seek the advice of a qualified immigration solicitor who can guide you through the process and ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements.

five-star-12

How to become a British citizen through registration

Registration is a simpler alternative to naturalisation for gaining British citizenship, but it’s only available to specific individuals.

This process is the sole way in which children can become British citizens, and it’s also applicable to adults under particular circumstances. Those over the age of 10 are required to demonstrate good character while applying, but they aren’t required to exhibit knowledge of the language or life in the UK.

Furthermore, people born to certain British mothers between February 7th 1961 and January 1st 1983 can now register as British citizens. When these individuals were born, only British fathers could pass on their nationality to children born outside the UK.

British nationals, excluding British citizens, who have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or a right of abode in the UK, can be registered as British citizens after residing in the UK for five years.

Other circumstances where someone may be eligible for registration include:

  • Registration by birth or adoption within the UK.
  • Registration when parents become British or settle in the UK.
  • Registration due to early years spent in the UK.
  • Birth outside the UK.
  • British overseas citizens, subjects and protected persons who lack any other nationality.
  • Former British citizens who have renounced their citizenship.

How long does the application take?

After collecting all the required documents, we’ll prepare your application in a format that is preferred by the Home Office. The application process usually takes between four to six months to complete.

During this time, you can continue to reside in the UK and your Indefinite Leave to Remain status will remain unaffected. Once your application is approved, you’ll be invited to attend a Citizenship Ceremony, which will officially grant you British citizenship. Following this, you can apply for a British passport.

Throughout the process, our immigration specialists will provide guidance and support, ensuring that you are informed about the status of your application and the next steps.

Benefits of British citizenship

Becoming a British citizen can provide numerous benefits, particularly if you plan to live permanently in the UK. Some of these benefits include:

  • You can reside in the UK permanently, allowing you to buy or sell property, move freely, open bank accounts and marry without any restrictions or additional requirements.
  • You can work in the UK with certain restrictions. You won’t need a work permit and will be entitled to state benefits.
  • You’ll have access to free healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS).
  • You can apply for a British passport, enabling you to travel to several other countries without requiring a visa every time and return to the UK without restrictions.
  • You’ll have the right to vote, allowing you to participate in shaping your local community or the country’s governance.
  • You can pass on the right to your children. If you become a British citizen, children born to you after that will automatically become British citizens.
five-star-11

How Five Star can help

Are you ready to become a citizen of the United Kingdom? Our expert team can help guide you through the process of applying for British citizenship and nationality.

Whether you’re looking to settle permanently in the UK or just need advice on the next steps, we’re here to help.

Individual and family immigration specialists

Discover the pathways for immigration to the UK with Five Star.

By choosing Five Star, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your visa application is in capable hands.

Contact us