Naturalisation As A British Citizen

Naturalisation As A British Citizen

Applying for Naturalisation

The XT 24 team has extensive experience in preparing successful Naturalisation applications. With a deep understanding of the Home Office processes, we strive to ensure that your applications meet all eligibility criteria and documentation requirements, increasing the likelihood of success.

What is Naturalisation?

Naturalisation is the primary method for adults not born British to become British citizens. If you have obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, or if you are an EEA national or a family member of an EEA national with permanent residency, you may qualify to apply for naturalisation as a British citizen.

Benefits of Naturalisation As A British Citizen

Becoming a British citizen through naturalisation offers several advantages. Unlike Indefinite Leave to Remain, citizenship does not lapse due to extended periods away from the UK. Citizenship can only be revoked in exceptional circumstances. Additionally, any children born after naturalisation will automatically be British citizens, regardless of their place of birth. Naturalised citizens are also entitled to vote in UK General Elections.

Do I qualify to naturalise as a British citizen?

To be eligible for naturalisation as a British citizen, you must demonstrate that:

• You are over 18 years old.
• You are of full capacity (sound mind) and good character.
• You possess sufficient knowledge of the English language and have passed a Life in the UK test.
• You have not violated any UK immigration laws during your stay in the UK.
• You intend to make the UK your main home upon naturalisation.
• You have spent less than 90 days outside the UK in the last 12 months before applying.
• You have been free from immigration control (held indefinite leave to remain) for at least 12 months, except if married to a British citizen, in which case freedom from immigration control is required on the application date.

Meeting the residence requirement depends on marital status:

• If married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, you must have lived in the UK for at least three years with no more than 270 days of absence.
• If not married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, you must have lived in the UK for at least five years with no more than 450 days of absence.

In some cases, applicants with longer absences may still qualify for naturalisation on a discretionary basis.

Dual Citizenship

The UK permits dual citizenship, and XT 24 does not require you to surrender your existing nationality upon becoming a British citizen. Before applying, check your country’s laws regarding dual citizenship and be aware of any consequences for your present nationality.

In certain cases, applicants may need to seek permission from their country of origin to retain their original nationality before applying for British citizenship.

For more information about XT 24 and our British Citizenship and Naturalisation services, please contact a member of the team who can address your queries and guide you through the process.