How to Become a British Citizen
Becoming a British citizen through naturalisation is the final step for many immigrants. It gives you the right to live permanently in the UK, hold a British passport, and participate fully in British life.
Note: This guide provides general information. Immigration and citizenship rules change — always consult the Home Office or an immigration adviser for advice specific to your circumstances.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for British citizenship by naturalisation, you must meet all of the following:
- Hold ILR/Settlement — for at least 12 months before applying
- Pass the Life in the UK Test — learn more
- Meet the residency requirement — 5 years in the UK, with no more than 450 days outside in that period
- Good character — no serious criminal record
- English language — B1 level or above (or exemption)
- Intend to continue living in the UK
The Application Process
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
- Valid passport
- Life in the UK Test certificate
- English language certificate
- Proof of ILR
- Residence evidence
- References from two people
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Apply on the gov.uk website. The application form asks about:
- Your personal details
- Immigration history
- Criminal record
- Time spent outside the UK
Step 3: Pay the Fee
The current fee is approximately £1,580 per person (check for updates). This includes the citizenship ceremony fee.
Step 4: Attend a Biometric Appointment
You'll need to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Processing typically takes around 6 months.
The Life in the UK Test Requirement
You must pass the Life in the UK Test as part of your citizenship application. The test covers British values, history, government, and daily life. It's 24 multiple choice questions with a 75% pass mark.
Prepare with our free practice tests and read our difficulty guide.
The Citizenship Ceremony
If your application is approved, you'll be invited to a citizenship ceremony. This is where you:
- Make an oath or affirmation of allegiance to the Crown
- Receive your certificate of naturalisation
- Can optionally sing the national anthem
The ceremony usually takes place within 90 days of your approval.
After Becoming a British Citizen
Once naturalised, you can:
- Live and work in the UK permanently without restrictions
- Apply for a British passport
- Vote in all UK elections
- No longer worry about immigration conditions
- Pass British citizenship to children born outside the UK (in some circumstances)
British Passport After Citizenship
You can apply for a British passport once you have your certificate of naturalisation. The passport application is separate from the citizenship process and takes around 10 weeks (or you can use the fast-track service).
How Long Does the Whole Process Take?
A typical timeline from arrival to citizenship:
- Years 1-5: On a qualifying visa route
- Year 5: Apply for and obtain ILR
- Year 5-6: Hold ILR for 12 months
- Year 6: Apply for citizenship
- 6 months later: Citizenship ceremony
See our ILR timeline guide for more detail on the settlement stage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not counting absence days correctly
- Forgetting to pass the Life in the UK Test
- Incomplete or inconsistent application forms
- Not providing enough residence evidence
- Applying before meeting the 12-month ILR requirement
Start preparing for the test now with our free practice exams.