Applying for British naturalisation is the final step to becoming a citizen. The process is based on the UK citizenship requirements set by the Home Office. You must prove lawful residence, language ability, good character, and intent to live in the UK.
UK naturalisation guidance: British citizenship requirements explained
Before applying for British naturalisation, it’s essential to meet all UK citizenship requirements, such as:
Category | Requirement | Details |
Age and eligibility requirements | Minimum Age | You must be 18 years or older to apply for UK naturalisation. Applications for children use a separate registration route. |
Legal Status | Only individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settled status, or permanent residence can apply for British naturalisation. | |
Residence and immigration requirements | Residence Period | The UK citizenship requirement is 5 years of lawful residence, or 3 years if married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen. |
Physical Presence | You must have been in the UK exactly 5 (or 3) years before your application is received by the Home Office. Being abroad on that date can lead to refusal. | |
Absence Limits | Maximum 450 days abroad in the last 5 years and 90 days in the last 12 months. For spouses of British citizens: 270 days in the last 3 years. | |
Immigration Status | You must hold ILR or settled status for at least 12 months, unless you’re married to a British citizen. You must have no time limit on your stay. | |
English language and Life in the UK Test | Show proof of English ability by passing a B1 English test or holding a degree taught in English. Exemptions: aged 65+ or long-term medical condition. | |
Life in the UK Test | All applicants must pass the Life in the UK Test, covering British history, culture, and laws. You’ll receive a certificate for your application. | |
Definition | You must be of good character — meaning no serious criminal record, immigration offences, or financial misconduct. | |
Common Refusals | Applications are often refused for criminal convictions, immigration breaches, or deceptive information given to authorities. | |
Intention to live in the UK | Residency Intent | You must plan to continue living in the UK after becoming a British citizen. Working abroad may be acceptable if you maintain strong UK ties (e.g., UK employer or government work). |
Required documents for British naturalisation
You’ll need to submit:
Current passport or travel document.
Proof of ILR or settled status (e.g., BRP or digital status).
Proof of residence (payslips, P60s, or letters).
Life in the UK Test certificate.
English language certificate or degree.
Two referees’ details who can confirm your identity.
If applying as a spouse, include your marriage certificate and your partner’s British passport.
How to apply for UK naturalisation in 6 steps
Upload or submit required documents.
Pay the application fee.
Book a biometric appointment through UKVCAS to provide fingerprints and a photo.
Wait for a decision — this usually takes 3–6 months.
If approved, attend a citizenship ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalisation.
After naturalisation
After receiving your certificate, you can apply for a British passport and officially enjoy full rights as a British citizen — including voting, working freely, and accessing public services.
UK naturalisation requirements checklist
Use this checklist to make sure you meet all UK citizenship requirements before applying for British naturalisation:
Age: You must be 18 years or older.
Immigration status: Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settled status, or permanent residence.
Residence reriod: Lived legally in the UK for at least 5 years, or 3 years if married to a British citizen.
Physical presence: Were physically in the UK exactly 5 (or 3) years before the application date.
Absence limits:
No more than 450 days abroad in the last 5 years.
No more than 90 days abroad in the last 12 months.
If married to a British citizen, no more than 270 days abroad in the past 3 years.
Language requirement: Passed a B1 English test or hold a degree taught in English.
Life in the UK Test: Passed the official Life in the UK Test.
Good character: No serious criminal record, immigration offences, or unpaid taxes.
Intention to reside: Plan to continue living in the UK or maintain strong UK ties.
Application form: Completed Form AN online and paid the required fee.
Biometrics: Attended your UKVCAS appointment for fingerprints and a photo.
Citizenship ceremony: Attended your citizenship ceremony and received your Certificate of Naturalisation.
