British Citizenship by Naturalisation
If you are 18 years or older and have been granted Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or have obtained the right of permanent residence in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for British Citizenship by Naturalisation.
Eligibility for British Citizenship by Naturalisation
To be naturalised as a British citizen, you must meet specific legal criteria related to your immigration status, residency in the UK, future intentions, English language proficiency, knowledge of life in the UK, and good character. The requirements differ slightly depending on whether you are married to a British citizen.
Applying for UK Citizenship: Not Married to a British Citizen
If you are not married to a British citizen, or choose not to base your application on your marriage, the Home Office requires that:
Residency: You were physically present in the UK exactly five years before the date of your application.
Absences: You have not been absent from the UK for more than 450 days during those five years.
Legal Status: You have not breached UK immigration laws at any time during this period.
Recent Presence: You have not been absent from the UK for more than 90 days in the 12 months before your application.
Indefinite Leave: You are not subject to any immigration time restrictions and have not been for the 12 months immediately preceding your application.
Good Character: You are considered of good character.
Language Proficiency: You possess sufficient knowledge of English, Welsh, or Scottish Gaelic.
Life in the UK Test: You have passed the Life in the UK test.
Intentions: Your primary home will remain in the UK if your application is successful.
Applying for UK Citizenship: Married to a British Citizen
If you are married to a British citizen, the Home Office requires that:
Residency: You were physically present in the UK exactly three years before the date of your application.
Absences: You have not been absent from the UK for more than 270 days during those three years.
Legal Status: You have not breached UK immigration laws during this period.
Recent Presence: You have not been absent from the UK for more than 90 days in the 12 months before your application.
Indefinite Leave: At the time of your application, you are not subject to any immigration time restrictions.
Good Character: You are considered of good character.
Language Proficiency: You possess sufficient knowledge of English, Welsh, or Scottish Gaelic.
Life in the UK Test: You have passed the Life in the UK test.
Tailored Requirements
The specific requirements for British Citizenship by Naturalisation may vary based on your individual circumstances. Consulting an immigration lawyer can provide you with expert advice tailored to your situation.