UK Citizenship for Foreign Nationals

Woman celebrates her UK citizenship.

UK citizenship, or naturalisation, allows you to live, work and study in Britain permanently, free of visa and immigration restrictions. There are several routes to British citizenship including:

  • Descent
  • Marriage to a UK citizen
  • Spending five continuous years in the UK
  • You’re deemed stateless
  • UK citizenship by investment

How Our Specialist British Citizenship Solicitors Can Help

Securing UK citizenship is a long process and if your application is refused by the Home Office you are unable to appeal the decision.

Partnering with us gives you access to specialist British citizenship lawyers who will help you complete your application and gather the information you need to ensure that you have the best possible chance of securing citizenship status in the UK.

Minimum Criteria to Qualify for UK Naturalisation

The criteria for UK naturalisation is best explained by speaking to an Ash Norton citizenship lawyer, as eligibility differs depending on your specific circumstances. However, the minimum criteria includes:

  • Being 18 or over
  • Five years continuous residence in Britain without exceeding 450 days of absence
  • Indefinite leave to remain in the UK for at least 12 months
  • Meeting English language requirements (excludes those with a disability or over the age of 65)
  • Passing the Life in the UK Test to demonstrate that you understand British customs, culture and traditions on a basic level
  • Not having been in violation of UK immigration rules

You must further demonstrate that you are a person of ‘good character, meaning that you must not have been convicted of a serious crime or have a recent criminal record. If you have committed offences outside the UK, these will be considered when your citizenship application is reviewed. Your contribution to UK society will also be assessed.

Successful UK Citizenship Application

If your British citizenship application is successful, you will need to attend a citizenship ceremony to receive your UK naturalisation certificate. Once you have your citizenship certificate, you can apply for a British passport.

Get Help with Your UK Naturalisation Application

Partnering with Ash Norton Solicitors gives you access to top British citizenship lawyers in London. If you’re considering UK naturalisation for the purpose of operating your business or for personal reasons, the help of an immigration lawyer will ensure that your case for becoming a UK citizen is presented in the best possible way to the Home Office.

Talk to our specialist London immigration lawyers now, about applying for British citizenship.


Call us on: +44 (0)20 7629 3633


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