Most adults who have migrated to the UK get citizenship by applying to ‘naturalise’.

You can apply for citizenship if you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years and have had one of the following for 12 months:

• Be over the age of 18.
• Have spent at least 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, with no longer than 450 days outside the UK.
• Have held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK for at least 12 months.
• Meet the English language requirements (unless exempt).
• Pass the Life in the UK Test, to show that you are aware of the basics of British customs, traditions and culture.
• Not have been in breach of any UK immigration rules.
• Demonstrate that they meet the Good Character requirement

Different ways to get British Citizenship

Other people may apply for citizenship as the spouse or civil partner of someone who is already a British citizen.

 Another possibility is to submit a citizenship application as someone who has indefinite leave to remain (ILR) status or ‘settled status’ under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Before you apply for naturalisation, you must also ensure that you meet additional requirements. Your total number of absences from the UK must not exceed a specific time frame, especially during the last year of your qualifying period, when you cannot spend more than 90 days outside the UK. It is also essential to satisfy the English language requirements unless you are exempt.

There are other ways in which you may be eligible for British citizenship. These include if you:

• Have a British parent
• Have another type of British nationality
• Are stateless
• Previously gave up – otherwise known as ‘renouncing’ – your citizenship

For a more detailed discussion about the options and possibilities for you, please do not hesitate to book a consultation with us at e-lhr.