If you are considering applying for UK citizenship, you will generally need to have been present in the UK for a specified period of time, as well as satisfying a range of other criteria. We take a look at the required timescales as well as how long the application process might take.
As a British citizen, you will have full rights to live and work in the UK as well as to travel and return to the country without restriction. It can also give you the option to bring your family to the country to live with you.
Some individuals may qualify for citizenship because of background or parentage, but for many, an application will be made after living in the UK for a number of years with either settled status or indefinite leave to remain. This is referred to as naturalisation.
At Halliday Reeves, we know how important it is to you to secure citizenship, particularly if you have been working towards this for many years. We specialise in immigration, meaning we have a genuine and in-depth understanding of both the law in this complex area and the way in which the Home Office works.
We can go through your circumstances and check that you are able to apply for UK citizenship. If you would like us to represent you, we will complete the application and ensure that you have the right documents in support. This evidence is crucial to the success of your request for citizenship and it is important not to leave anything out.
If you would like to discuss your situation and whether you are eligible for citizenship, we will be happy to hear from you. To speak to one of our expert immigration solicitors, 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.
“I think 5 stars are not enough for the service I got… I got my citizenship certificate in two months and this is amazing.”
Applying For UK Citizenship By Naturalisation
To be eligible to make a citizen application, you need to:
- Be aged 18 or over
- Have the intention of continuing to live in the UK
- Have the necessary standard of English
- Pass the Life in the UK test
- Be of good character
- Have not breached UK immigration rules
- Satisfy the residency requirements
Residency Requirements For UK Citizenship
To qualify for UK citizenship, you need to satisfy the following criteria:
- You have held one of the following for a minimum of twelve months:
- Indefinite Leave to Remain
- EU settled status
- EEA permanent residence
- You have been resident in the UK continuously for the three years leading up to your application and you have not been away from the UK during this qualifying period for more than 270 days if you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British Citizen OR for five years and no more than 450 days outside of the UK if not.
- The number of days you have been out of the UK in the year leading up to your application must not exceed 90
You will need to supply documentary evidence of all of the above points and we can help you identify what paperwork you have that will best establish this.
How Long Does UK Citizenship Application Take?
The length of time to process a UK citizenship application will depend on how busy the Home Office is. Decisions may be received within three to four months, but in some cases it could be six months. The government advise that you will usually receive a decision within six months, but that some applications can take longer.
It can also delay matters if some information has not been provided and you are asked to produce more evidence in support. We can help you with your application to ensure it is as strong as possible and that robust evidence is included, reducing the risk of enquiries or a rejection.
Contact Our UK Citizenship Solicitors
If you believe you are ready to make an application for UK citizenship, we will do all we can to help you secure this. We have a proven track record of success and have secured citizenship for many individuals.
To speak to one of our expert UK citizenship lawyers, ring us on 0330 133 7777, email us at enquiries@hallidayreeves.com or fill in our Contact Form.
“Excellent service in all aspects of citizenship”
