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British Citizenship Applications [Apply For Naturalisation Or Registration As A British Citizen]

To become a British citizen, you can either apply to naturalise as a British citizen or register as a British citizen, depending on your personal circumstances. Becoming a British citizen is a major milestone that offers legal security, full civic rights, and a true sense of belonging. Whether you hold Indefinite Leave to Remain, are a spouse of a British citizen, or qualify through another route, naturalisation is your gateway to officially making the UK your home.

Becoming a British citizen is a significant life event. It allows you to apply for a British citizen passport, and gives you the opportunity to participate more fully in the life of your local community. There are different ways to become a British citizen. You can either naturalise as a British Citizen (Naturalisation as a British Citizen) or register as a British Citizen (Registration as British Citizen).

If your application for British Citizenship is refused by the Home Office UKVI, you can apply for the reconsideration of the nationality application.

Services We Offer

Naturalisation As A British Citizen

As specialist work visa solicitors, we can provide expert immigration advice and legal representations for Naturalisation As A British Citizen

Registration As A British Citizen

As specialist work visa solicitors, we can provide expert immigration advice and legal representations for Registration As A British Citizen

Reconsideration Of Naturalisation / Nationality Application

As specialist work visa solicitors, we can provide expert immigration advice and legal representations for Reconsideration Of Naturalisation / Nationality Application

Free Immigration Advice for British Citizenship Applications

At Sunrise Solicitors, we offer free initial immigration advice to individuals seeking British citizenship, ensuring you begin your journey with clarity and confidence. With years of experience, our trusted team of immigration specialists will assess your eligibility, explain the Home Office requirements, and guide you through the naturalisation process step by step. Known for our expertise, transparency, and client-focused approach, we have helped thousands secure their future in the UK. Let Sunrise Solicitors provide the trusted legal support you need to make your citizenship application a success.

Eligibility Requirements: Married to British Citizen

Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
Residency Requirement: You must have lived in the UK continuously for a minimum of three years immediately before your application date (the ‘qualifying period’). During this time, your total absences from the UK must not exceed 270 days, and no more than 90 days should have been spent outside the UK in the 12 months prior to applying.
Immigration Status: You must have held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK you can apply immediately.
If you are an EEA national, you must either hold permanent residence or have been granted settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme you have to complete 12 months period.
Good Character Requirement: You must be able to demonstrate good character and must not have a recent or serious criminal history.
Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK: You must meet the English language requirements and have passed the Life in the UK test.
Immigration Compliance: You must have complied fully with UK immigration laws throughout your qualifying period.
Intention to Reside: You must intend to continue living in the UK after becoming a British citizen.

Eligibility Requirements: Not Married to British Citizen

You were physically present in the United Kingdom exactly five years prior to the date of your application.
You have not been absent from the United Kingdom for more than 450 days during the five-year qualifying period.
You have not been in breach of UK immigration laws at any time during that five-year period.
You have not been absent from the United Kingdom for more than 90 days during the 12-month period immediately preceding the date of your application.
You are not subject to any restriction on the length of your stay in the United Kingdom and have not been subject to such restriction at any point during the 12-month period immediately before your application.
You are considered to be of good character.
You possess sufficient knowledge of the English, Welsh, or Scottish Gaelic language.
You have taken and passed the Life in the UK test.
You intend, should your application be successful, to make the United Kingdom your home or principal place of residence.

British Citizenship Through Naturalisation

Naturalisation remains the principal legal pathway through which foreign nationals may acquire British citizenship.

To qualify for naturalisation, an applicant must be aged 18 or over and must have lawfully held one of the following forms of settled status in the United Kingdom for a minimum of 12 months: Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Permanent Residence under the EEA Regulations, or Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme. However, where the applicant is married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, the 12-month holding period is waived, and the application may be submitted immediately upon the grant of settled status.

In addition to satisfying the immigration status requirement, applicants must also meet the prescribed residence criteria, demonstrate adequate knowledge of English (or Welsh or Scottish Gaelic), pass the Life in the UK test, and satisfy the Home Office that they are of good character within the meaning of the British Nationality Act 1981.

British Citizenship by Birth

Under UK nationality law, not all children born on British soil are automatically entitled to British citizenship. A child will acquire British citizenship by birth if they were born in the United Kingdom on or after 1 January 1983 and, at the time of their birth, at least one parent was either a British citizen or was considered settled in the UK. “Settled status” includes those holding Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), permanent residence under EEA regulations, or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Where a child is born in the UK to parents who, at the time of birth, were neither British citizens nor settled, the child does not automatically acquire British citizenship. However, such a child may later become eligible to register as a British citizen if one or both parents subsequently acquire settled status or British citizenship, subject to meeting the relevant statutory requirements and evidentiary criteria.

Obtaining Citizenship through Registration

Here the applicants can understand the process of citizenship through registration via different channels.

British Citizenship by Decent

Under the provisions governing British citizenship by descent, individuals born outside the United Kingdom may acquire British citizenship if at least one parent—or, in limited circumstances, a grandparent—holds British citizenship at the time of the individual’s birth.

However, British citizenship acquired by descent is generally not transmissible to the next generation born abroad. An individual who is a British citizen by descent cannot usually confer that citizenship to a child born outside the UK, except where the child is born to a parent who is serving in a Crown service, designated service, or EU service at the time of birth.

An individual is considered a British citizen otherwise than by descent in the following circumstances:

Where they were born or legally adopted in the United Kingdom before 1 January 1983;
Where they were born in the UK on or after 1 January 1983 to a mother—or, if the parents were married at the time of birth, a father—who was either a British citizen or settled in the UK;
Where they were born in the UK on or after 1 July 2006 to at least one parent who was a British citizen or settled in the UK at the time of birth; or
Where citizenship has been granted in their own right, such as through naturalisation or registration under the British Nationality Act 1981 or subsequent regulations.

British citizenship otherwise than by descent is transmissible to one generation born outside the UK.

British Citizenship by Registration

If you were born in the United Kingdom before 1 January 1983, you are generally regarded as a British citizen automatically and do not need to register your citizenship. You may apply directly for a British passport as evidence of your nationality.

For individuals born in the UK on or after 1 January 1983, British citizenship is typically acquired automatically if, at the time of birth, at least one parent was either a British citizen or held settled status in the UK. In such cases, you may apply for a British passport without needing to register.

However, if you were born on or after 1 January 1983 and did not automatically acquire citizenship at birth, you may be eligible to register as a British citizen if:

You are under the age of 18 and, since your birth, one of your parents has obtained British citizenship or been granted settled status in the UK; or
You have resided in the UK continuously from birth until the age of ten or beyond.

Registration is subject to fulfilling all relevant legal criteria and providing appropriate documentary evidence.

British Citizenship by Marriage

British citizenship through marriage enables the spouse or civil partner of a British citizen to apply for naturalisation, provided specific eligibility requirements are met.

To qualify, the applicant must have been physically present in the United Kingdom for a continuous period of at least three years immediately preceding the date of application. At the time of applying, the individual must hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), permanent residence, or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. Unlike other naturalisation routes, applicants applying on the basis of marriage to a British citizen are not required to have held ILR or settled status for 12 months prior to applying—they may submit their application as soon as that status is granted.

In addition to residency and immigration status requirements, the applicant must also satisfy the standard naturalisation criteria, including demonstrating adequate knowledge of the English language and successfully passing the Life in the UK test.

Registration as under 18’s

To apply under this route, you must be under 18 at the time of application. If you were born on or after 1 January 1983 and one of your parents made the UK their home, you may be eligible to register as a British citizen if, after your birth, your parent:
a) Became a British citizen,
b) Was granted Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR),
c) Obtained settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or
d) Was granted Indefinite Leave to Enter the UK.

Once you turn 18, you must apply for British citizenship as an adult, either by entitlement through registration or by naturalisation.

Documents Required

When applying for British citizenship, it is crucial to compile a well-documented portfolio that clearly demonstrates you meet all eligibility and residency requirements. This documentation enables the Home Office to thoroughly assess your application.

Below is a list of essential documents that must be submitted to support your application:

Proof of Identity and Immigration Status

This includes your current passport, birth certificate, or any other valid travel document confirming your identity and settled status.

Evidence of Indefinite Leave or Settled Status

You must provide your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), residence card, eVisa details, or confirmation of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Indefinite Leave to Enter, or EU Settled Status.

Previous Immigration History

Submit documentation showing your prior immigration status and legal stay in the UK before you obtained settled status, including visas or residence permits.

Language and Life in the UK Knowledge

Provide valid pass certificates for both the Life in the UK Test and the English language test (ESOL). If already submitted for your ILR application, the Life in the UK Test does not need to be retaken.

Evidence of Continuous Lawful Residence

Supply documents confirming that you have complied with all UK immigration laws throughout the qualifying period.

Travel History

Provide a record of all absences from the UK during the relevant residence period. You must show that your time outside the UK did not exceed 450 days over five years (or 270 days over three years if applying as a spouse), and no more than 90 days in the 12 months before the application.

Proof of Freedom from Immigration Restrictions

Demonstrate that you are free from any time limits on your stay in the UK and hold the right to remain permanently.

Good Character Requirement

Provide a declaration or supporting evidence to confirm that you have not breached immigration laws or committed any criminal offences.

Evidence of Exercising Treaty Rights (where applicable)

Depending on your immigration history, you may need to show that you exercised treaty rights, such as through employment, education, or self-sufficiency. Supporting documents may include employer letters, bank statements, or confirmation of study.

Additional documentation may be requested based on your specific circumstances, so it is important to ensure your application is complete, accurate, and tailored to your individual case.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for British Citizenship

Becoming a British citizen is a major milestone—and with the right guidance, the process can be smooth and straightforward. Here’s how to take each step with confidence:

Confirm Your Eligibility

Start by making sure you meet all the key criteria. This includes fulfilling the residency requirements, demonstrating English language ability, proving you are of good character, and passing the Life in the UK Test.

Collect Supporting Documents

Build a strong case by gathering all required documents. These may include your passport, proof of settled status, language test certificates, and records of your time spent in and outside the UK.

Complete the Application Form

Fill out the correct citizenship application—Form AN for most adult applicants—through the official UK government website. Accuracy is vital, so double-check all details.

Book Your Biometrics Appointment

Once your application is submitted, schedule an appointment at your nearest UKVCAS centre to provide your biometric information—fingerprints and a photograph—as part of the verification process.

Submit & Pay

Upload your documents, review everything carefully, and submit your application. You’ll also pay the required application fee online at this stage.

Attend the Citizenship Ceremony

If your application is approved, you’ll be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony—a proud and formal event where you’ll receive your certificate of British citizenship and officially become a British national.

Application Fee for British Citizenship Application

The fee for adult applications is £1,735, which includes the £130 citizenship ceremony fee. The fee for children under 18 is £1,214.

An additional fee of £19.20 is required for biometric enrolment. Fees can be paid online using a credit or debit card when submitting your application.

How long will the process take for British Citizenship?

The Home Office will begin processing your British citizenship application only after the correct application fee has been paid. In most cases, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) aims to issue a decision within six months.

While there is currently no Premium or Same-Day Service available to expedite naturalisation applications, some applicants may receive a decision earlier than expected. However, complex cases may take longer to process. Submitting complete and well-documented evidence increases the likelihood of a timely decision. In contrast, applications that are missing key documents or information are at risk of delays or refusal.

It is important to understand that application fees are non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful. Once your application is approved, you must wait for an official invitation to attend a Citizenship Ceremony. At the ceremony, you will receive your Naturalisation Certificate, after which you can proceed to apply for your British passport.

British Citizenship Refrees

As part of your British citizenship application, you must provide the details of two referees who can verify your identity. Both must have known you personally for at least three years. One referee must be a person of professional standing (e.g. doctor, teacher, solicitor), and the other must be a British citizen aged 25 or over.

Referees must not be related to you, your solicitor or agent, employed by the Home Office, or have any criminal convictions within the past ten years. Each referee is required to complete a section of the application form, providing their personal details, stating how they know you, and signing a declaration confirming the information is true. By doing so, they affirm your identity and good character—ensuring the credibility of your application.

What is the British Citizenship Application Form?

The British Citizenship Application Form, known as Form AN, is the official document used to apply for naturalisation as a British citizen. Applicants must complete this form in full, providing detailed information to demonstrate their eligibility. This includes personal and biographical data, evidence of lawful residence in the UK, employment details, and information about any dependants included in the application. For those applying as the spouse or civil partner of a British citizen, additional documentation is required to confirm the validity of the relationship. The form also requires the inclusion of two referees who have known the applicant for a specified period. These referees must sign the form to certify that the information provided is accurate and truthful.

Difference between ILR an British Citizenship

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is an immigration status that permits a non-UK national to reside, work, and study in the UK without being subject to immigration control. British citizenship, on the other hand, is the legal status of a person who is recognised as a national of the UK, granting full civic rights and responsibilities. The primary distinction lies in the rights and privileges associated with each status. ILR provides the right to remain in the UK indefinitely and access essential services such as the National Health Service (NHS).

However, British citizenship offers all the benefits of ILR along with additional entitlements, including the right to vote in all UK elections, apply for a British passport, and hold dual nationality. In essence, British citizenship confers full legal recognition as a national of the UK, whereas ILR does not include these extended civic and political rights.

Can a British Citizenship Decision Be Appealed?

A British citizenship application can be refused or rejected by the Home Office. When this happens, the applicant is provided with a refusal letter outlining the reasons for the decision and any possible next steps. It is important to note that there is no automatic right of appeal against a refusal of British citizenship.

There are several reasons why an application for British citizenship might be refused, including the following:

The applicant does not meet the eligibility criteria based on immigration status, nationality, or personal background
The applicant fails to satisfy the ‘good character’ requirement due to a criminal record, financial concerns, or other relevant factors
The applicant has not met the residence requirements, either by failing to provide sufficient evidence, breaching immigration rules, or spending excessive time outside the UK
The applicant has not demonstrated the required level of English or failed the Life in the UK Test
The applicant did not respond to enquiries from the Home Office within the specified timeframe
Other disqualifying reasons as determined by the Home Office

How to Challenge a Refused British Citizenship Application

It is important to note that there is no automatic right of appeal following a refusal of British citizenship. As such, obtaining expert legal advice is often essential to determine the most appropriate course of action. In some situations, an individual may be able to submit a Request for Reconsideration to the Home Office. This process allows the applicant to ask the Home Office to review their decision if it is believed that an error was made in applying the law, policy, or procedure.

The Home Office is more likely to consider a request for reconsideration in the following situations:

A clear error was made in assessing the original application
The applicant was said to have failed to respond to a request for information, but evidence shows the response was submitted on time
The application was refused without the applicant being given the chance to address a concern or provide additional information
The refusal was based on a criminal conviction that was later overturned or withdrawn
Relevant facts or documents were not properly considered in the original decision
Other valid reasons that justify a second review of the case

In all such matters, it is strongly recommended that applicants seek professional legal advice to assess the strength of their case and ensure that any response or request is correctly prepared and submitted.

How Can Sunrise Solicitors Help?

Sunrise Solicitors has helped many individuals successfully apply for British citizenship, offering trusted legal guidance throughout the process.

To apply for naturalisation in the UK, an applicant must hold ILR, Permanent Residence, or Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme. Sunrise Solicitors can assist with every step of the process to ensure the best possible outcome.

One of our qualified immigration solicitors will assist by:

Checking your supporting documents to ensure they are complete and meet Home Office requirements;
Assessing your eligibility for British citizenship, ILR, permanent residence, or settled status;
Liaising with the Home Office on your behalf until a decision is made on your application;
Preparing a detailed Letter of Representation to support your case;
Completing all sections of your citizenship application form to the highest professional standard;
Ensuring you are fully prepared for the Life in the UK Test; and
Helping you meet the English language requirement with confidence.

Call us Today or Book an appointment to receive expert legal advice from our qualified solicitor.