Citizenship / Naturalization in United Kingdom
One documented route of this kind in United Kingdom, with its conditions, documents, official government fees and process.
Naturalisation as a British citizen
The main route to British citizenship for adults holding ILR/settled status, subject to residence, Life in the UK test, English and good-character requirements.
- Processing time
- Usually up to 6 months
- Validity
- Permanent (citizenship)
- Language requirement
- English at the required level
- Permanent residence
- Citizenship supersedes ILR
- Citizenship
- Granted on approval and at the citizenship ceremony
Requirements
- Aged 18 or over
- Held ILR/settled status for 12 months (waived if married to a British citizen)
- 5 years' lawful residence (3 if married to a British citizen)
- No more than 450 days abroad over 5 years (90 in the final year)
- Pass the Life in the UK test and meet the English requirement
- Good character and intention to remain
- Two referees per Form AN
Required Documents
- Passport and travel history required
- ILR/settled status evidence required
- Life in the UK test pass required
- English language evidence required
- Two referees' details required
- Biometric enrolment required
Official fees
- Application fee 1,709 GBP
- Citizenship ceremony fee 130 GBP
Process Steps
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1
Confirm eligibility
Confirm eligibility and residence history.
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2
Complete the form
Complete Form AN online (or by post).
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3
Book biometrics
Book a UKVCAS biometric appointment.
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4
Biometrics and documents
Provide biometrics and upload/scan documents.
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5
Decision
Await the decision.
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6
Ceremony
Attend a citizenship ceremony.