Naturalisation is the process most adult applicants must undergo in order to become a British citizen. If your application is successful (see the required criteria below) you will gain the full range of rights enjoyed by nationals of the UK. Our solicitors can assist you through this journey and maximise your chances for a successful naturalisation application. The naturalisation route is slightly different for people married to a British citizen. If you are married to a British citizen, you can apply through the "British Citizenship by Marriage" route.
Once you have settled in the UK and lived here legally for five years, or three years if you are married to a British citizen, you may be eligible to naturalise as British. Eligibility for British citizenship by naturalization primarily depends on residency, good character, and integration into British society. Before you begin your British naturalisation application, you must also meet the following requirements:
When applying for British citizenship by naturalization, it is crucial to provide comprehensive and accurate documentation. The required documents typically include evidence of your identity, marital status, your immigration status and your continuous residence in the UK. Certain applications might need of some additional documents, specially if there are issues regarding your character, such as a criminal conviction or a previous immigration problem.
To become British, children must undergo a registration process. The best approach may be determined by factors such as where and when the child was born and the status of the parents. Latitude Law can advise you on the best route available for your child. Our lawyers have particular expertise in complex cases involving adoption and surrogacy. For an application form and guidance, contact one of our expert solicitors.
Dr & Mrs O08/2024Successful naturalisation for couple
"I just want to say a big thank you to Keelin, Anna and the rest of the team there at Latitude Law Solicitors, for the professional manner in which you handled our British naturalisation applications.
We're fully aware you were working tirelessly and efficiently behind the scene, throughout the process of compilation of our documents, completion and the eventual submission of our naturalisation application. We truly and sincerely appreciate the invaluable contribution you made, that ultimately resulted in a successful naturalisation application for us. You've been exceptional. Please keep up with your great work ethic and dedication to excellence.”
Latitude Law’s specialist team helps many applicants with their citizenship and nationality cases in a wide variety of scenarios. We are used to work with complex application and can provide detailed guidance about how to meet the requirements In your specific circumstances, review and advice regarding the documentation required for your case to have the best chances of success, and prepare the entire application alongside detailed representations explaining how the relevant rules are met.
We understand how challenging it can be to navigate the process of obtaining British citizenship by naturalisation or registration. That is why our team of experienced solicitors, who have many years of experience in immigration law, will do everything they can to help your British citizenship by naturalisation or registration application be successful.
We are pleased to be recognised as a leading law firm by the following independent bodies: The Times Best Law Firms 2024, Chambers & Partners 2024, Legal 500 2024 and Who'sWhoLegal 2024. These endorsements from the international legal directories demonstrate our integrity and success in dealing with difficult cases. We are also proud of our 5-star Google reviews from over 150 satisfied clients.
The Home Office state that they aim to complete naturalisation applications within 6 months of submission. Of course, this period is not set in stone and applications can sometimes be met with delays.
Before beginning the process, you will need to pass a Life in the UK test and, if you do not meet the English language requirement in another way (i.e. by being a national of a majority speaking English country or by having a degree taught in English), an English language test to level B1 CEFR in speaking and listening.
Previous convictions will be considered when looking at the good character requirement. Having a previous conviction may not automatically mean that your application will be refused. However, having such a conviction will make your application more difficult. The type (custodial or non-custodial) and length of any sentence are relevant, as is the nature of the crime itself and whether it was a one-off offence or part of a more persistent pattern of offending. You should seek specialist advice before applying to naturalise if you have a conviction.
Yes, if you have been granted ILR or settled status and can meet the other requirements you will be eligible for British citizenship.
You can apply for a British passport once your naturalisation application has been approved and you have been granted a certificate of naturalisation. Note that most applicants for a first passport are required to attend an interview.
There is no statutory right of appeal if your naturalisation application is refused. However, you may be able to submit a request for reconsideration of the decision if you feel you have grounds to argue that the application was refused incorrectly.
To learn more about what to do next, read our guide to your options if your application for British citizenship is refused.
You will require two referees to confirm that you are of good character. One must be a British passport holder over the age of 25; the other must be a professional person, not necessarily British.
A referee cannot be your British spouse or anyone personally related to you. They also cannot be the lawyer who is handling your citizenship application.
As the requirements for obtaining British citizenship by naturalisation or registration are complex, to ensure success, you should seek specialist advice from an immigration solicitor before you proceed with an application. Latitude Law’s specialist lawyers can advise you about your individual requirements and ensure that your supporting documentation is compliant with the very latest immigration rules.
Get in touch with our legal team today on 0300 131 6767 or fill out our enquiry form and we will get straight back to you. Face your future knowing you have the dedicated support of one of our expert lawyers.
If your partner is a British citizen and you see your future in the UK, you may be considering gaining British citizenship through marriage. This type of naturalisation application is dependent on satisfying a number of requirements, so it’s smart to seek legal help when you begin your application.
A settlement visa – also known as indefinite leave to remain – can only be applied for once a person qualifies, usually after a set period of residence in a visa category that leads to settlement. In most instances, settlement is obtained once a person has resided in the UK for five years.
The UK government believes that family should stay together wherever possible, which is why they offer visas for family members of British citizens or migrants who are settled in the UK. The immigration solicitors at Latitude Law can guide you through the application process and provide legal advice on complex matters, such as past refusals and appeals.
