There are several ways of becoming British, either as an adult seeking to naturalise as British, a parent wanting to register a child as British, or in some circumstances, if you have missed out on British Citizenship due to past discrimination in British Nationality law.
What are my options?
Naturalisation
This is the process for an adult who has obtained indefinite leave to remain in the UK and who meets certain criteria.
You would need to show that the following requirements are met:
- You have the intention to live in the UK.
- You will need to show you have indefinite leave to remain and have had this for one year, unless married to a British citizen, when this one year requirement is waived.
- That you need to meet the good character requirement – UKVI will consider your whole history in the UK as far back as ten years and this is the requirement that can most often lead to refusals.
- You will need to have passed the life in the UK test and prove English language at the requisite level in speaking and listening, by either doing a test or alternatively, you may meet this requirement if you have a degree that was taught in English. Nationals of certain countries are exempt from having to meet the English requirement. Individuals can also be exempt due to age and for certain medical reasons.
You will also need to show that have been living legally in the UK for five years continuously and have not been absent from the UK for more than 450 days in total and not more than 90 days in the year immediately before you apply. If you are married to a British Citizen, the requirements are three years and 270 days absence.
Registration of a child
Some children can be born automatically British, others can register as British, when they become eligible. There are different rules for children born in the UK and children born outside the UK.
In some circumstances, a child is entitled to register and in other circumstances, there is a discretionary power to register a child.
The application must be made before the child turns 18 and if 10 years or older, they must meet the good character requirement.
Registration of an adult
British Nationality law is complex and has historically discriminated against certain individuals. The Home Secretary can now register as British, an adult that has missed out due to
- Historical legislative unfairness
- An act or omission of a public authority
- Exceptional circumstances relating to them.
Do we offer legal aid?
We do not offer legal aid, but can represent you on a fee paying basis if you do not qualify for legal aid.
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