British Citizenship
Once you are settled in the UK, i.e. have Indefinite Leave to Remain or Permanent Residence, if you are an EEA national or their family member, you are free to live in the UK without any time restriction. It is not a mandatory requirement to go on to become a British citizen. Many nationals, however, prefer to become British citizens for various reasons such as it gives a sense of security to some as they have moved their base to the UK permanently, for visa nationals it is the ease of not having to obtain a visa before traveling to other countries etc. There are two ways in which you can become a British citizen, one by naturalisation, and second by registration. There are certain requirements which you must meet.
Naturalisation
This is the common route by which adults become British citizens.
Requirements
- You are aged 18 or above.
- You are of good character.
- You must have 5 years of lawful residence in the UK.
- You must not have been absent for more than 450 days in the 5 years.
- You must have held indefinite leave to remain in the UK or permanent residence status if an EEA national, in the last 12 months.
- You must not have been absent from the UK for more than 90 days in the last 12 months.
- You meet the Knowledge of English language and Life in the UK requirement.
Registration
Registration is a route for children to become British citizens and for adults in special circumstances. Children can become British citizens through two avenues of entitlement and discretion. Entitlement allows them a right under law to apply and be registered. Whereas, applications under discretion are decided as the Home Secretary thinks fit. Children aged 10 and over are required to meet the good character requirement and various other requirements. But they are not required to meet the Knowledge of English language and Life in the UK requirement.
What we can do for you
We will assess your case and advise you on the merits of your application. If you do not meet all of the requirements, you will be advised on the discretionary elements under which your application can succeed – If, for example, you have excess absences or have not been free from immigration restrictions for 12 months. You will know at the outset the likely outcome of your application.
Fees
Our fixed fees for individual British citizenship application range from £1550 to £3000 plus VAT and disbursements. Disbursements typically include Home Office / Visa fees, biometrics enrolment fees, translations, courier and postage etc.
Contact British citizenship Lawyers
If you want an immigration specialist to handle your application, then contact us.
Address:
42 Upper Berkeley Street
London,
W1H 5PW
Information
Authorised and Regulated
by the Solicitors Regulation Authority
SRA Number: 627176