How to Obtain British Citizenship: Everything You Need to Know

23 Dec How to Obtain British Citizenship: Everything You Need to Know

In this article, we will clarify the most important points and steps to keep in mind if you intend to apply for British citizenship.

Moving to the UK for work, starting a new business, following love, or simply seeking a fresh start—whatever your reason, it’s essential to understand what it means to become a British citizen.

How Do You Become a British Citizen?

There are several ways to become a British citizen if you are not one by birth.

The Most Common Way: Naturalisation

You can apply for naturalisation if you are over 18 years old, have no criminal record, and intend to live in the UK for the required period. You must also meet the English language requirements, pass the Life in the UK test, and have lived in the UK for the five years preceding the application (including not spending more than 450 days outside the UK during those five years and no more than 90 days in the 12 months before applying).

European citizens must hold permanent resident status for the 12 months preceding the application and provide a permanent residence document with their citizenship application.

Non-European citizens must obtain indefinite leave to remain in the UK for at least 12 months before applying.

Lastly, you must not have violated any UK immigration laws.

For children under 18, parents must apply on their behalf, provided the eligibility requirements are met.

Becoming a British Citizen Through Marriage

If you are married to a British citizen, it does not automatically grant you British citizenship. You must apply as a spouse, a process that takes time and requires specific documents.

The requirements are the same as those for naturalisation: being at least 18 years old, meeting residency and English language requirements, demonstrating good character, passing the Life in the UK test, and holding a residence permit or permanent residence card.

More details can be found on the UK government’s website at this link: https://www.gov.uk/apply-citizenship-spouse.

Is Dual Citizenship Allowed?

Dual citizenship or dual nationality is allowed and recognized in the UK. This means you can be a British citizen while also retaining your Italian or original nationality. However, if you apply for a third citizenship in another country, your British citizenship may no longer be valid.

What Happens After Submitting the Citizenship Application?

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation letter acknowledging receipt. It may take up to four weeks for the letter to arrive, while the decision on your application can take around six months or more.

If additional supporting documents are needed, you will be notified and given instructions on where to send them. In some cases, an interview may be required.

Upon receiving a positive decision, if you are over 18, you will be invited to book a place at a citizenship ceremony. During the ceremony, you will take an oath of allegiance and pledge to respect the rights, freedoms, and laws of the UK. At the end of the ceremony, you will be issued a British citizenship certificate and a welcome pack.

Can You Apply for a British Passport?

Obtaining British nationality does not automatically entitle you to a passport. After acquiring British nationality, you can submit a separate application for a passport.

You can apply for a passport if you are:

• A British citizen
• A British Overseas Territories citizen
• A British Overseas citizen
• A British subject
• A British National (Overseas)
• A British Protected Person

Now that you have a clearer idea of the requirements and process for British citizenship, you can proceed with confidence.

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