Naturalization is the process of attaining British citizenship and is the final step in the immigration process. Once the application is granted, the applicant will no longer need to make any further applications and will obtain all the benefits and rights given to a British citizen. For migrants to the UK , this is the final end of the immigration process.

Eligibility

All applicants applying for naturalization must meet strict criteria in regard to their stay in the UK . Applications are normally made after 3 or 6 years depending on the individual’s situation and the type of visa they entered the UK with. The normal process is:

As well as spending the required time in the UK , all applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The applicant must have spent a minimum of 12 months on ILR
• Be over 18 years old
• Be of sound mind and good character
• Intend to continue living in the UK
• Be proficient in the English language

Almost all applications for naturalization fall into either one of two categories, 3 year or 6 year applications. This is determined by which visa the applicant came to the UK under.

6 Year Applications

Normally this relates to applicants who have achieved ILR by spending 5 years on a Work Permit, HSMP visa or an Ancestry visa. Following the required 12 months on ILR, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The applicant must have been living in the UK for 6 years prior to submission
• Should not have spent more than 450 days outside the UK in the last 5 years
• Should not have spent more than 90 days outside the UK in the last year

3 Year Applications

Applicants applying under the 3 year criteria are normally those on spouse visas and who qualify for ILR after 2 years and naturalization after a required 12 months. The criteria for these application is:

• The applicant must have been living in the UK for 3 years prior to submission
• Should not have spent more than 270 days outside of the UK in the last 3 years
• Should not have spent more than 90 days outside the UK in the last year

When making an application for Naturalization, all migrants will need to provide documentation to support the above points. ATG can help in advising you on all the required documentation and proof to ensure your individual application is approved.

Further Information

Becoming naturalised and a British citizen allows for a number of significant benefits, including some of the following:

• A British passport allowing you to travel without restriction within the EU and globally as per the requirements of British citizens
• Access to public funds and entitlements such as a state pension
• Reduced University fees

While naturalization does provide a number of benefits, there are also factors that applicants should consider when taking on British citizenship:

• Britain and many other countries allow for dual citizenship – holding citizenship from more than one country. Some countries however do not permit you to hold dual citizenship and by taking on British citizenship you will have to renounce your previous citizenship and passport.