Naturalisation is the legal process through which a non-British individual can become a British citizen, gaining various privileges. Initiating the journey to British citizenship by Naturalisation is a monumental step. Expert Immigration Solicitors at GigaLegal can professionally guide you through this transformative process.
What are the benefits of British citizenship?
- Permanent residency rights in the UK.
- Eligibility to vote and participate in UK elections.
- Entitlement to a British passport.
- Opportunities to bring family members to live in the UK.
- Full access to public services.
Am I eligible for Naturalisation in the UK?
You can apply for British citizenship by Naturalisation if you have lived in the UK for five years and have had one of the following for 12 months:
- indefinite leave to remain in the UK
- ‘settled status’ (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain under the EU Settlement Scheme’)
- indefinite leave to enter the UK (permission to move to the UK permanently from abroad)
Don’t need to wait 12 months to apply if you’re married to a British citizen.
You must:
- be over 18
- prove you were in the UK exactly 5 years before the day the Home Office receives your application
- prove your knowledge of English, Welsh, or Scottish Gaelic
- have passed the Life in the UK test
- intend to continue living in the UK
- be of good character – read the naturalisation guidance
You must have lived in the UK for at least 5 years before the date of your application. It would be best if you also had not broken any UK immigration laws.
If you have indefinite leave to enter or remain, the Home Office will not usually check if you broke any immigration laws before then.
You cannot include any time spent in the UK when you’re exempt from immigration control as a:
- diplomat
- member of a diplomat’s staff or household
- member of visiting armed forces
Key points for a successful Naturalisation application
- Gather essential documents, including identification and proof of residency.
- Prepare to disclose details about your background, such as your criminal record and financial information.
- Consult with expert immigration solicitors at GigaLegal to ensure the accuracy and completeness of your application.
The Naturalisation process can be different depending on your individual circumstances. For example, if you are married to a British citizen, you may be able to apply for Naturalisation after only 3 years of living in the UK.
If your application for Naturalisation is successful, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony. At the ceremony, you will pledge your allegiance to the King and the UK, and you will be presented with your Naturalisation certificate.
How do I apply for British citizenship by Naturalisation in the UK?
Expert guidance is invaluable for those unfamiliar with the complexities of the Naturalisation application and its requirements. Having an expert immigration lawyer can simplify this process. If this seems like a journey you are about to embark on, expert immigration solicitors of GigaLegal are here to help.
Get in Touch: For a comprehensive understanding of your options or queries on UK visit visa, Spouse visa, or any other family visa categories, reach out to GigaLegal at 02074067654 or click here to book a no-obligation consultation with an immigration expert.