British Citizenship: Complete Guide 2025

Section A: What is British Citizenship?

British citizenship is the highest form of immigration status in the United Kingdom. It gives a person the right of abode in the UK, meaning they can live, work and study here permanently without immigration restrictions. It also provides full participation in the country’s civic and political life, including the right to vote, stand for public office and apply for a British passport. It effectively marks the point where an individual stops being a migrant and becomes legally recognised as part of the UK community.

Citizenship can be obtained in different ways. Some people are born British automatically, either because they were born in the UK to a British or settled parent, or because they inherited citizenship through descent. Others become British later through naturalisation or registration.

Naturalisation is the main route for adults who have lived in the UK for several years and hold indefinite leave to remain or settled status. Registration covers specific categories, often involving children or those with historic claims.

Holding British citizenship brings benefits that go beyond permanent residence. It removes all immigration control, protects the holder from deportation or refusal of entry and secures access to public services without visa-based restrictions. Citizens are free to travel in and out of the UK without time limits and can hold dual nationality if their other country allows it. The status is granted for life and can only be removed in rare cases involving fraud or serious national security concerns.

In practical terms, British citizenship provides long-term security, global mobility and full recognition under UK law. It represents both legal certainty and a sense of belonging, confirming that the individual’s status in the UK is granted for life, though it can be deprived in rare cases.

1. Benefits of British Citizenship

Becoming a British citizen ends immigration control and confirms your full membership of the UK community. The change is both legal and practical, giving permanent security, new rights and access to systems previously restricted to settled or temporary residents. While these benefits are significant, citizenship also brings responsibilities, including compliance with UK law and participation in civic life.

a. Right to live and work in the UK

As a British citizen, you can live and work in the UK permanently without needing a visa or immigration permission. There are no sponsorship, renewal or reporting requirements, and no risk of losing status through inactivity. You can also leave and re-enter the country freely without the time limits that apply to ILR or settled status. This allows unrestricted access to employment, self-employment, study and public services, giving long-term stability to individuals and families.

b. Rights to be joined by family

British citizens can sponsor close family members to come to the UK under the Immigration Rules, such as the spouse, partner, child or parent routes. Each application is assessed on its own merits and must meet the financial, relationship and English language requirements. Holding British citizenship strengthens the sponsor’s position but does not remove the need to satisfy those separate visa rules. Early planning helps families avoid refusals caused by missing financial evidence or outdated documentation.

c. Access to healthcare and social services

British citizens have full access to the National Health Service (NHS) without charge at the point of use. This includes general practitioner care, hospital treatment, specialist referrals and emergency services. You may also be eligible for public benefits and support, such as child benefit, housing assistance, pension credit or universal credit, depending on your circumstances. Access is subject to the same eligibility and income rules as any other UK resident, but citizenship removes immigration-based restrictions or reporting duties.

d. Right to vote and hold public office

British citizenship gives you the right to vote in UK parliamentary, local and devolved elections and to take part in referendums. It also allows you to stand for public office, including roles such as Member of Parliament, councillor or mayor. This civic participation reflects full integration into the country’s democratic life. Registering to vote is quick and can be completed online once you receive your citizenship certificate.

e. British citizenship and dual nationality

The UK allows dual nationality, so you can hold British citizenship alongside another nationality if your original country also permits it. You are not required to renounce any existing nationality under UK law. However, some countries do not allow dual citizenship, or they may require you to notify or obtain consent before you naturalise elsewhere. It is important to check with your home country’s embassy or consulate before applying, as failure to comply could result in loss of your original nationality. Once you are British, you can apply for a British passport and continue to use any other valid passports you hold in accordance with your other country’s rules.

f. Security and stability

Citizenship offers permanent security from immigration changes and removes the need to track visa expiry dates, salary thresholds or sponsor compliance. You gain the right of abode, which confirms that you are free from any immigration conditions or controls. The legal certainty of citizenship helps with long-term commitments such as property ownership, mortgages and pensions, since lenders and institutions recognise the status as unrestricted residence.

2. Differences between British Citizenship and ILR or Settled Status

Indefinite Leave to Remain and EU Settled Status give long-term permission to live and work in the UK, but they are not the same as British citizenship. The key difference lies in permanence, rights and security. ILR and settled status can lapse or be revoked, while citizenship is a permanent legal status that confirms your right of abode in the UK.

With ILR or settled status, you have no time limit on your stay, access to work, study and public services, and you can use the NHS without paying the Immigration Health Surcharge. However, the status can be lost after two continuous years outside the UK, or if the Home Office cancels it due to criminality, deception or public interest grounds. You remain subject to immigration law and may still need to prove your status to employers, landlords and border officers.

British citizenship, by contrast, cannot usually be lost through absence. You are no longer under immigration control and cannot be deported or refused entry. You gain the right to vote in all UK elections, stand for public office and hold a British passport. Citizenship also simplifies family sponsorship because your relatives apply to join a British citizen rather than a settled migrant, which can influence eligibility under the Immigration Rules.

Citizenship therefore provides peace of mind that your status will not depend on digital systems or policy changes. It also secures inheritance of nationality for children born in the UK after you naturalise. Many ILR or settled status holders delay applying for citizenship due to cost or complexity, but the permanence and full rights of citizenship often outweigh those concerns for anyone planning to build a long-term future in the UK.

Section B: How Do you Become a British Citizen?

British citizenship can be acquired automatically or on application. The main pathways are birth in the UK, descent from a British parent, registration in specific cases, and naturalisation for adults who meet the residence and other statutory tests. Use the current Rules and policy guidance when assessing your route, since proposals do not change outcomes until new legislation takes effect.

1. British citizenship through naturalisation

Naturalisation is the standard route for most adults who were not born British. Applicants apply under section 6(1) or section 6(2) of the British Nationality Act 1981. Under section 6(1) you usually need five years’ residence, to have held indefinite leave to remain or EU settled status for at least twelve months at the date of application, and to meet the English language, Life in the UK and good character requirements. Under section 6(2) for spouses or civil partners of British citizens, the residence period is three years and there is no twelve-month ILR wait. The future intention requirement applies to section 6(1) but not to section 6(2). Permanent residence under the old EEA Regulations is no longer a standalone basis. Where relevant, hold ILR or EUSS settled status before applying.

2. British citizenship by birth

A child born in the UK on or after 1 January 1983 is British at birth only if, at the time of birth, at least one parent was a British citizen or was settled in the UK. Settled means holding indefinite leave to remain or EU settled status. If neither parent was British or settled at the time of birth, the child is not British automatically but may later register once a parent becomes British or settled, or after meeting the ten-year rule described below. People born in the UK before 1 January 1983 are usually British, subject to historic exceptions.

3. British citizenship by descent

A person born outside the UK is a British citizen by descent if a parent was British otherwise than by descent at the time of birth. Citizenship by descent generally does not pass automatically to the next generation born abroad. There are limited exceptions, for example children of certain Crown or designated service parents, or where a parent later meets the residence and registration routes for a child. Adults who are British by descent cannot usually transmit citizenship automatically to a child born outside the UK unless an exception applies, so parents should seek advice early on registration routes for children.

4. British citizenship by marriage

There is no separate “citizenship by marriage” status. Spouses and civil partners of British citizens apply for naturalisation under section 6(2). The qualifying residence period is three years ending with the application date. There is no twelve-month ILR wait and no future intention requirement, but all other naturalisation tests still apply. Absence limits differ from section 6(1) and applicants should confirm they were physically present in the UK on the date exactly three years before applying.

5. British citizenship by registration

Registration is a statutory route to become British in defined circumstances. It covers both children and, in some cases, adults. Common routes include a child born in the UK who registers once a parent becomes British or settled (section 1(3)), a child born in the UK who has lived here for the first ten years of life (section 1(4)), and discretionary registration for children where it is appropriate to grant citizenship in their best interests (section 3(1)). There are also specific routes created to remedy historic injustices. Registration is not the same as naturalisation and has different tests and evidential expectations.

6. Registration for under 18s

Children under 18 can register in a range of scenarios. Where a child was born in the UK and a parent later becomes British or settled, the child can usually register under section 1(3). Where a child was born in the UK and has lived here for the first ten years, the child can usually register under section 1(4). Discretion under section 3(1) enables registration where the facts justify a grant, taking account of best interests and the family’s circumstances. Evidence of residence, schooling and parental status is central. Once a child turns 18, adult routes apply.

7. Registration if you lived in the UK until you were 10

Children born in the UK on or after 1 January 1983 who have lived in the UK for the first ten years of life can register under section 1(4). The usual rule is no more than 90 days outside the UK in each of those first ten years. Caseworkers may exercise discretion where absences are slightly higher and there is strong evidence of the UK being the child’s home. Applicants should document residence year by year through school records, medical letters and official correspondence to avoid queries or delay.

Section C: British Citizenship Rule Changes

The government has trailed a programme of reforms in 2025 that would tighten the journey from temporary permission to settlement and, in turn, to citizenship. These are proposals only. Until new Immigration Rules are laid and come into force, the current framework remains unchanged. Most routes still lead to settlement after five years, with a further year holding indefinite leave to remain or settled status before applying to naturalise under section 6(1). Spouses and civil partners of British citizens can continue to apply under section 6(2) after three years’ residence without the extra year on ILR. Plan your case on the law in force today and keep an eye on formal announcements.

Policy statements point toward longer residence for settlement in many categories and a more selective gateway to settlement and citizenship. The direction of travel includes talk of a ten year standard for some cohorts and a stronger focus on contribution over time, such as sustained lawful work, skills, integration indicators and compliance with tax and immigration duties. Any reform would need a Statement of Changes and commencement dates before it has legal effect. Until then, applications are decided under the existing Rules and nationality legislation.

Current law applies in full. For section 6(1) applications the residence period is five years, absence limits are enforced, and the applicant needs to have held ILR or EU settled status for at least twelve months at the application date. For section 6(2) applications by spouses and civil partners the residence period is three years and there is no twelve month ILR requirement. Knowledge of language and Life in the UK, good character and the physical presence rule on the relevant date continue to apply. Do not assume that any proposed change will assist or disadvantage you until it has been enacted and given a start date.

If longer qualifying periods are introduced, applicants on routes that currently reach settlement in five years could face extended timelines to citizenship. Partners of British citizens and protection routes may be treated differently, although the detail has not been published. A contribution based model would place greater weight on documentary evidence of lawful work, tax compliance, language progression and community ties built up over time. Individuals who already meet the current tests for settlement or naturalisation should consider whether applying now is right for them, taking account of absence totals, the presence on the exact qualifying date and the readiness of their evidence.

Until new Immigration Rules or legislation take effect, applications are decided under current law.

Section D: British Citizenship Requirements

You can apply to naturalise under section 6(1) or section 6(2) of the British Nationality Act 1981. Section 6(1) applies to most adults and uses a five-year residence period with a requirement to have held indefinite leave to remain or EU settled status for at least twelve months at the application date. Section 6(2) applies to spouses and civil partners of British citizens and uses a three-year residence period with no twelve-month ILR wait. Both routes require knowledge of language and Life in the UK, good character and compliance with immigration law.

a. Section 6(1): five years’ residence, twelve months with ILR or EUSS settled

b. Section 6(2): spouse or civil partner route, three years’ residence, no twelve-month wait

c. All applicants: knowledge of language and Life in the UK, good character, lawful residence

1. Residency requirements

For section 6(1) you are required to show five years’ residence ending with the application date, with absences not exceeding 450 days across those five years and not exceeding 90 days in the final year. For section 6(2) you are required to show three years’ residence ending with the application date, with absences not exceeding 270 days across those three years and not exceeding 90 days in the final year. Caseworkers can consider discretion where absences are over the limits and strong ties to the UK are proven.

A separate rule applies to the exact date test. You need to have been physically present in the UK on the date exactly five years before you apply under section 6(1), or exactly three years before you apply under section 6(2). Many refusals arise where the applicant was overseas on that earlier date, even if other residence totals are within the limits.

Residence must be lawful throughout the qualifying period unless discretion is exercised. Permanent residence under the old EEA Regulations is not used now as a basis. Hold ILR or EU settled status before you apply.

2. English language proficiency

The knowledge of language requirement can be met with a recognised degree taught or researched in English, or by passing an approved test at B1 level or above on the current Secure English Language Test list. Nationals of majority English-speaking countries, including Ireland for nationality applications, meet the language element without testing. Exemptions also apply for applicants aged 65 or over and for long-term physical or mental condition where the evidence satisfies policy. If you relied on an exemption at settlement stage, check whether it covers nationality or whether fresh evidence is required.

3. Life in the UK test

Most applicants need to pass the Life in the UK test. The test is computer based, with 24 multiple-choice questions and a pass score of 75 per cent. Booking is online through the official service and the fee is £50. If you already passed the test for indefinite leave to remain, you do not need to retake it for naturalisation. If you fail, you can retake the test, with a new booking and fee each time.

4. Good character requirement

The good character assessment applies to applicants aged 10 or over. Caseworkers look at criminality, deception, immigration breaches, civil penalties, financial soundness, tax compliance and unpaid NHS charges. Guidance updated in 2025 directs refusal in defined scenarios, including certain unlawful entry or facilitation, subject to individual assessment and any relevant concessions. Full disclosure is required. Spent convictions and minor fixed penalties can still be relevant depending on timing and pattern. Where doubt exists, timing your application and providing context with evidence can be decisive.

Section E: British Citizenship Application Process

The process is online and evidence led. Check you meet the residence tests, English language, Life in the UK and good character requirements before you start. Prepare documents, line up referees who meet the rules, complete the application accurately, upload evidence, then attend UKVCAS to enrol biometrics and finalise your submission. Keep lawful permission in the UK until you attend your ceremony.

1. Step-by-step process

Step 1. Confirm eligibility

Confirm you meet section 6(1) or 6(2) requirements, including the exact date physical presence test and absence limits. Check that you already hold ILR or EU settled status as required for your route and that your KoLL position is clear.

Step 2. Gather evidence

Assemble proof of identity, immigration status, residence, English language and Life in the UK. Organise materials chronologically. Ensure names are consistent across all records. If you have changed your name, include the deed poll or marriage certificate.

Step 3. Secure referees

Identify two referees who meet the Home Office criteria and have known you for at least three years. Brief them on what they will need to confirm and the risk of refusal if information is inaccurate.

Step 4. Complete the online form

Complete Form AN online via the government service. Answer all questions truthfully. Disclose cautions, convictions, civil penalties and immigration issues with context. Accuracy is decisive since there is no appeal right against refusal.

Step 5. Upload documents and submit

Upload clear scans through the portal. Follow the UKVCAS document guidance. Do not send originals unless UKVI asks for them. Pay the application fee at submission.

Step 6. Enrol biometrics at UKVCAS

Book a UKVCAS appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph. Some locations offer paid slots and document scanning services. Attend with the documents you intend to rely on. If UKVI requests further information, respond within the deadline given.

Step 7. Await a decision and next steps

Most decisions issue in around six months. If approved, you will be invited to a ceremony which should be booked and attended within three months of the invitation. If refused, the decision letter will explain the reasons and whether reconsideration is viable.

2. Supporting documents

Provide a current passport or travel document and, if held, a biometric residence permit. Evidence residence across the qualifying years through official records such as HMRC letters, employer letters, P60s, payslips, bank statements and utility bills. Include your Life in the UK pass notification and English language evidence or exemption. If applying under section 6(2), include your marriage or civil partnership certificate and your partner’s British passport details. Where absences exceed published limits, provide evidence of strong UK ties and reasons for travel to support discretion.

3. Referees

Two referees are required. One should be a person of professional standing. The second should normally hold a British citizen passport and be a professional person or be over 25. Both referees should have known you personally for at least three years. Referees cannot be related to you or to each other, cannot be your representative, cannot live at your address, cannot work for the Home Office and should not have recent criminal convictions. For child applications, at least one referee should have engaged with the child professionally, for example a teacher or social worker.

Read our comprehensive guide to British citizenship referees here > 

4. British Citizenship Fees & Processing Times

The adult naturalisation fee is £1,735 in total. This includes the £130 citizenship ceremony fee. The child registration fee is £1,214. UKVCAS may charge for premium appointment slots or value-added services which are optional and separate from the Home Office fee.

Interviews are uncommon but can be requested to clarify identity or evidence. Decisions usually issue within six months. Complex histories, good character queries and third-party checks can extend timelines.

Read our guide to British citizenship fees here > 

5. British Citizenship Application Common Challenges

Naturalisation is rule bound and evidence heavy. Refusals usually trace back to a handful of recurring mistakes. Understanding these patterns helps you prepare a complete file and avoid preventable setbacks. Use the current AN guidance and policy to check your position before you submit, then build documentary proof that answers the caseworker’s questions without prompting.

a. Frequent refusal grounds

The most common problems fall into predictable categories. Address each one directly in your form and evidence so the decision maker does not need to chase explanations.

Applicants are often overseas on the date exactly five years before applying under section 6(1), or three years for section 6(2). If you were not in the UK on that date, refusal is likely unless a narrow discretion applies. Check the calendar before you start and plan your submission date around this rule.

Totals that exceed the published limits need a reasoned explanation and strong ties to the UK. Provide evidence of work, home and family life, and explain why travel was necessary. Unsupported tables of trips rarely persuade on their own.

Breaks in permission, late applications or periods without evidence create risk. If there were issues, prepare a concise chronology with proof of lawful stay and any relevant correspondence so the history reads clearly.

Non-disclosure, recent offending, civil penalties, deception, unpaid taxes or NHS debts can derail an otherwise strong case. Full disclosure with context is expected. Provide court outcomes, payment evidence and tax records where relevant.

Scattered bank statements and informal letters rarely cover five or three full years. Build a consistent record using HMRC documents, employer letters, P60s, payslips, council tax, tenancy and utility records across the period.

Referees who do not meet the rules, do not know you well enough or make mistakes on the declaration can cause delay or refusal. Brief them and check every field matches your form.

Missing Life in the UK pass notifications, unverified degree evidence or non-approved English tests are frequent issues. Use the approved test list or provide degree verification in the format the guidance expects.

Wrong fee, failed card payments or incomplete uploads can invalidate a submission. Keep proof of payment and a full document list. If UKVI asks for more information, respond within the deadline.

2. Practical steps to reduce risk

Build your file like a compliance dossier. The aim is a decision that can be made from the papers without queries.

Confirm you were in the UK on the exact qualifying date and that absence totals fall within limits. If not, consider timing or assemble a discretion case with evidence of strong ties and reasons for travel.

Lay out a short chronology with key documents for each year. Where there are thin periods, add corroboration such as employer HR letters, HMRC records or GP registration evidence.

Disclose all relevant issues and include supporting documents. For resolved matters, show outcomes and settlement of liabilities. For ongoing points, explain steps taken and provide proofs.

Choose referees who meet the rules and have known you for at least three years. Give them your full name as on your passport, dates of birth and contact details to avoid transcription mistakes.

For degrees, include the certificate, transcript and, if applicable, UK NARIC/ECCTIS confirmation. For tests, book an approved provider and keep the unique reference safe.

Name files logically, avoid duplicates and ensure scans are clear. A concise index helps caseworkers navigate your bundle quickly.

Section F: Home Office Decision

The outcome letter from the Home Office confirms whether your application has been approved or refused. The decision is based entirely on the evidence and information provided in your submission. There is no appeal right, so accuracy and completeness at the application stage are crucial. Where the decision is favourable, the next step is to attend a citizenship ceremony. If refused, you will need to understand the grounds given and consider the available remedies before making any new application.

1. British Citizenship Application Approved?

Once your application is granted, you will receive an official approval letter inviting you to attend a citizenship ceremony. Attendance is compulsory for adults who naturalise, and the ceremony must take place within three months of the invitation date. Local councils arrange group ceremonies, though private ceremonies can usually be requested for an additional fee.

At the ceremony, you will take an oath of allegiance or an affirmation if you prefer not to swear by God, and pledge loyalty to the United Kingdom and its values. You will then receive your certificate of British citizenship. This certificate is the legal proof of your new status, so store it securely. Following the ceremony, return any biometric residence permit within five working days, as your previous immigration status will cease to be valid once you become British.

You can apply for a British passport once you receive your certificate. A British passport confirms your right to enter and live in the UK freely and evidences your citizenship when travelling abroad. You will also be eligible to register to vote and stand for elected office in the UK.

2. British citizenship Application Refused?

If your application is refused, the Home Office will issue a decision letter explaining the reasons for refusal. Common grounds include excess absences, failure to meet the physical presence rule, issues under the good character test, incomplete or misleading information, and lack of evidence of lawful residence. The refusal letter is detailed and should be read carefully to identify whether the issue is factual, evidential or discretionary.

There is no formal right of appeal against a refusal, but you may request a reconsideration if you believe the decision was based on a Home Office error. The reconsideration process is limited and must be supported by clear evidence of mistake, such as the caseworker misreading the documentation or applying the wrong legal test. If you have new evidence or your circumstances have changed, it is usually better to prepare a fresh application addressing the refusal reasons in full.

Where refusal turns on a matter of interpretation, timing or policy application, legal advice may help determine whether a judicial review could be justified. However, most issues can be resolved by improving documentation, timing or disclosure in a new application.

Section G: Summary

British citizenship is a permanent legal status that ends immigration control and confirms the right of abode. People become British by birth, by descent, by registration in defined cases or by naturalisation. Naturalisation has two main routes. Section 6(1) is the standard route with a five year residence period and at least twelve months with ILR or EU settled status before applying. Section 6(2) applies to spouses and civil partners of British citizens with a three year residence period and no twelve month ILR wait.

Applicants should meet absence limits and be physically present in the UK exactly five years before applying under section 6(1) or three years under section 6(2). Knowledge of language and Life in the UK and the good character test apply. Good character guidance was strengthened in 2025 and now places more focus on criminality, deception, immigration breaches and financial conduct. EEA permanent residence is no longer a qualifying basis. Hold ILR or EU settled status first.

The process is online. Prepare evidence of identity, immigration status, residence, English language and Life in the UK. Two referees are required who meet the Home Office criteria. Most decisions issue in around six months. Adults then attend a ceremony within three months. After the ceremony, return any BRP and keep the certificate safe. The adult fee is £1,735 in total. The child registration fee is £1,214.

Government proposals to lengthen settlement timelines and introduce contribution based criteria are not in force. Plan using the current Rules and monitor for formal changes.

Citizenship secures permanent residence, voting rights and a British passport. Family sponsorship still follows the Immigration Rules with separate eligibility tests. Children usually apply in their own right by registration, even when included in a family plan.

Section H: Need Assistance?

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. We support individuals with all types of UK citizenship and nationality applications, including guidance on applications for British citizenship.

We have extensive experience of managing naturalisation applications on behalf of applicants, and bring substantial insight into Home Office protocols and requirements when processing naturalisation applications. We also have expertise in complex applications, such as time-sensitive applications or where there are evidentiary challenges.

For expert advice on your British citizenship application, arrange a fixed fee telephone consultation with one of our specialist advisers.

Section I: British Citizenship FAQs

What is British citizenship?

British citizenship is a permanent legal status that gives the holder the right of abode in the UK. It ends all immigration control, allowing a person to live, work and study in the UK freely and to participate fully in civic life, including voting and holding a British passport.

Who can apply for British citizenship?

Adults can usually apply through naturalisation once they have held indefinite leave to remain or EU settled status for at least twelve months and have lived in the UK for five years. Spouses and civil partners of British citizens can apply after three years of residence with settled status and do not need to wait the extra year.

What are the residence requirements?

You must have lived in the UK for at least five years, or three years if married to a British citizen, and meet the absence limits. You also need to have been physically present in the UK exactly five or three years before applying. Exceeding the limits may still be acceptable if strong ties and compelling reasons are proven.

What tests are required for British citizenship?

Applicants must pass the Life in the UK test and meet the English language requirement, either by passing an approved test at B1 level or above, by having a qualifying English-taught degree, or by being a national of an approved majority English-speaking country. Some exemptions apply for age and health reasons.

What is the good character requirement?

Applicants aged 10 or over must show good character. The Home Office checks criminal, immigration and financial history, including tax compliance and any civil penalties. Full disclosure is expected. The 2025 guidance tightened treatment of unlawful entry and deception, though discretion remains possible in limited circumstances.

How long does the process take?

The Home Office aims to decide most applications within six months. Complex cases or additional checks can take longer. You should remain lawfully in the UK until you attend your citizenship ceremony, which must be booked within three months of the invitation.

How much does British citizenship cost?

The adult fee is £1,735 in total, including the ceremony. The child registration fee is £1,214. UKVCAS may charge optional fees for premium appointments or scanning services. There is no refund if your application is refused.

Can I hold dual nationality?

Yes, the UK allows dual nationality, but your other country may not. Check with your embassy before applying, as some countries require you to give up your original citizenship or to notify them of any new nationality.

Can my children become British citizens?

Children usually apply separately by registration rather than as dependants on a parent’s naturalisation form. Eligibility depends on where they were born, their parents’ status at the time, and residence history. Registration routes exist for children born in the UK to parents who later become settled or British, and for those who lived in the UK for their first ten years.

What happens after approval?

You will receive an invitation to attend a citizenship ceremony. After taking the oath or affirmation and pledge of allegiance, you will receive your certificate of British citizenship. Return any BRP within five working days and apply for a British passport once your certificate has been issued.

Section J: Glossary

Section K: Additional Resources