British citizenship – what you need to know

If you are an EU citizen and have lived in the UK for at least 5 years, you automatically acquire the right to permanent UK citizenship. However, if you want to become a British citizen, you will need a permanent resident card before applying. If you don’t already have a permanent residence card, find out more about how to get one here.

Obtaining British citizenship has many significant consequences for you and your family, so it is extremely important to find the right solicitor right from the start before attempting to apply for immigration, avoiding delays, unnecessary expenses and ensuring that your application is successful.

Granting citizenship

You must prove that you are able to meet certain legal requirements. To ensure that you are granted citizenship, our experienced team will assist you in applying and answering your naturalization inquiries.

The requirements that must be met will vary depending on whether the application is based on a marriage or partnership with a British citizen.

• You can apply for British citizenship if:
• You are 18 years old and you are sane
• You meet the residency requirements
• You have a certificate confirming permanent residence in the UK (valid for EU citizens)
• You have a flawless character
• You know the English language at an appropriate level and you know the realities of the UK well.
• You are going to live in Great Britain
  

Permanent residence requirement

You may not be subject to the immigration time limits stated on your application. In order to qualify for residency, you must satisfy the residency requirement for at least 12 months. If you are a citizen of the European Union, you will be required to obtain a document confirming permanent residence in the UK. Moreover, in the last 12 months you have not been able to spend more than 90 days outside the UK. If you are unsure if you meet the residency requirements, someone from our immigration team will help you.

Flawless character

If you have not been convicted of a serious crime or any recent crime, and you have not been involved in an immigration crime for 10 years, you meet this condition. One of our immigration attorneys will consider your individual circumstances and advise you on what to do next.

The partner / spouse is a UK citizen

If you are married to a British citizen, you must meet other requirements before becoming a citizen. Regardless of whether you meet this or other conditions that must be met by the spouse of a UK citizen, we will advise you.