What is Naturalisation?

Naturalisation is the legal process by which a non-British person becomes a British citizen. It is one of the most common routes to citizenship in the UK, particularly for those who do not automatically qualify through ancestry. Once granted, naturalisation allows you to apply for a British passport and enjoy all rights and responsibilities of UK citizenship.

Eligibility for Naturalisation

To apply for naturalisation, you must generally:

• Have lived in the UK for 5 years prior to your application;

• Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for at least 12 months;

• Demonstrate that you have not been absent from the UK for more than 450 days in the last 5 years, and no more than 90 days in the last 12 months;

• Be of good character, without serious criminal offences or breaches of UK immigration law;

• Meet the English language requirement;

• Pass the Life in the UK Test;

• Be over 18 years old and of sound mind;

• Show an intention to continue living in the UK.

Naturalisation for Spouses of British Citizens

If you are married to or a civil partner of a British citizen, the requirements are slightly different:

• You must have lived in the UK for the last 3 years;

• Hold ILR at the time of application;

• Absences from the UK must not exceed 270 days over the 3-year period, and 90 days in the last 12 months;

• Be of good character and comply with immigration rules.

English Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of English (or Welsh/Gaelic) at a B1 level or higher on an approved test. Exemptions apply to:

• Those under 18 or over 65;

• Individuals with long-term physical or mental conditions;

• Nationals of predominantly English-speaking countries (e.g., USA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, Caribbean nations).

A UK degree or a previously approved English test used for ILR may still be accepted for naturalisation.

Life in the UK Test

This test ensures that applicants understand UK culture, history, and society. It is only required once, and a previous pass (e.g., during ILR application) counts.

British Citizenship for Children

Children under 18 may acquire citizenship through:

• Being born in the UK to parents who become British or settled after birth;

• Living in the UK until at least age 10 without exceeding 90 days abroad per year;

• Discretionary registration if their parent(s) are British or settled, with stronger chances for children who have lived longer in the UK.

For children, no English language test or citizenship ceremony is required, but the application must be supported by two referees.

Summary

Naturalisation is the final step for many residents to fully establish their life in the UK. With ILR in hand and compliance with residency, good character, English language, and Life in the UK requirements, you can secure British citizenship and a passport, ensuring your long-term future in the country.