CITIZENSHIP

British citizenship can be an ultimate last step for many migrants over a long period of time.

British citizenship grants you with full rights to live, work and travel as a UK citizen. You can enter and leave the country without restrictions and enjoy the same rights as UK citizens.

What is British Citizenship?

British citizenship is a form of British nationality under the British Nationality Act 1981.

How do I become a British Citizen?

If you wish to settle in the UK and obtain British Citizenship, there are a few routes that you may qualify for the British Citizenship

British citizenship by birth

If you were born in the UK before 01 January 1983, you would acquire British citizenship by birth.

If you were born in the UK after 01 January 1983, you would acquire British citizenship by birth if at least one of your parents was a British citizen or settled in the UK when you are born.

British citizenship by naturalisation

If you are an overseas national undertake to become a UK citizen, you may apply for naturalisation provided you meet the following eligibility requirements:

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 B1 CEFR English language requirements (exemption may apply in certain circumstances)
Pass the Life in the UK Test
Not have been in breach of any immigration rules
Meet the good character requirement
Plan to live permanently in the UK

British citizenship registration

British citizenship by birth or by descent

You may automatically be recognised as a British national if you were born in the UK after 01 January 1983.

You may also be eligible if you were born abroad from at least one parent who is a British citizen or settled person.

British citizenship by marriage

You must first have spent at least 3 years in the UK as a settled person (either holding ILR or EU settled status) to apply for British nationality as the spouse / civil partner of a UK citizen

5-year route

You will be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain after 5 years of continuous residency in the UK.

You may then submit your application for naturalisation after another 12-months of holding indefinite leave to remain

Can a refugee acquire for British citizenship ?

A refugee may be eligible to apply for British citizenship provided he meets the requirements. The law in this area is very strict, and each application is assessed based on its merits, including each applicant’s immigration history.

The immigration rules in British citizenship can be complex and challenging. Our highly experienced and qualified immigration lawyers will ensure you have the right documents and all the required details to gain British citizenship.