British Citizenship Application
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What is British Citizenship?
What is British Citizenship?
Acquiring British citizenship grants an individual the right to reside in the United Kingdom for the remainder of their life, work, study, claim benefits, and have access to medical services through the NHS without any charges. These rights are equivalent to those held by a British national.
Additionally, British citizenship allows for the application of a British passport and visa-free travel to and from the UK, reflecting freedom from immigration restrictions. Citizenship can be acquired in several ways, such as birth, descent, marriage, or through the process of naturalisation.
Unlike Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which can be lost if an individual spends two or more consecutive years outside of the UK, citizenship is typically permanent. However, it may be revoked in extreme instances where the individual is deemed a significant threat to the UK.
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Our Immigration Services
How We Can Help With Your British Citizenship Application
How We Can Help With Your British Citizenship Application
A Truly Bespoke Support
If you have ILR/Settlement, we will advise on your eligibility for citizenship and will help you to establish a timeline for becoming a British citizen.
Proactive Advice
We will ensure you comply with all of the visa requirements and will take the stress out of preparing and submitting a strong visa application.
Expert Lawyers
We can also help you to determine whether any members of your family qualify for citizenship, and will support in submitting their applications either separately or together with your own.
Criteria for Acquiring British Citizenship
Criteria for acquiring British citizenship necessitate that an individual coming from a foreign country must meet specific standards outlined in the British Nationality Act to be naturalised as a UK citizen. These standards largely entail:
- Being aged 18 or above
- Residing in the UK for the stipulated qualifying period
- Living in the UK for at least a year post-settlement
- Fulfilling the continuous residence criteria
- Meeting the language proficiency requirements
- Passing the Life in the UK test.
- Planning to reside in the UK following acquiring citizenship
Applicants must also demonstrate good character and adherence to immigration regulations. For those applying through marriage, civil partnership, or a relationship with a British citizen, the post-settlement residence criterion is not applicable.
The route to British citizenship varies by individual cases and eligibility, including options like citizenship by birth, descent, marriage, naturalisation, and converting settled status into citizenship.
British Citizenship by Birth
It is essential to understand that being born in the UK does not guarantee automatic British citizenship. Eligibility for British citizenship by birth is contingent upon several factors, including the timing and location of your birth. Being born in the UK before 1st January 1983 typically means you are automatically a British citizen. For births in the UK after this date, British citizenship by birth generally requires that at least one parent was a British citizen or had settled status in the UK when you were born.
British Citizenship by Descent
If your parent or grandparent had British citizenship, you might be eligible to apply for British citizenship by descent, even if you were born outside the UK. It’s important to note that this form of citizenship usually only extends to one generation. In other words, those with citizenship by descent cannot transfer their citizenship to their children, in contrast to those born in the UK with British citizenship ‘other than by descent’. In certain circumstances, individuals born abroad to a British citizen parent may be automatically considered British citizens by descent. For those not qualifying automatically, registration for citizenship by descent is an available option.
British Citizenship by Marriage or Civil Partnership
To be eligible for UK citizenship through a relationship, marriage, or civil partnership with a British citizen, you are required to have lived in the UK for a minimum of three years before applying. This rule helps to verify that the majority of your time has been spent within the UK, thereby supporting the authenticity of your application. In addition, it’s important that you haven’t spent more than 90 days outside the UK in the twelve months preceding your application.
British Citizenship by Naturalisation
To qualify for citizenship via naturalisation, you have to either hold an indefinite leave to remain or EU Settled Status or be married or be in a civil partnership with a British citizen.
Settled Status to British Citizenship
To qualify for British citizenship by naturalisation, it’s necessary to have lived in the UK for a minimum of five years and to have held either Indefinite Leave to Remain, Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or Indefinite Leave to Enter the UK for at least one year. Importantly, during the five years leading up to your application, you should not have been outside the UK for more than 450 days and not more than 90 days in the twelve months directly preceding your application.
Documentation
Documentation
When applying for UK citizenship, you will be required to provide certain documents as evidence. These may include:
- identification proof
- evidence of permanent residency permission in the UK
- documentation confirming your relationship with a British citizen
- verification of a continuous and authentic relationship with a British citizen
- certification of compliance with residency and absence criteria
- and successful completion of the Life in the UK Test.
To avoid any application delays or denial, it’s critical to submit the correct documentation. For specialised advice, please feel free to contact us here
Our Process
Application Process
Application Process
The procedure for obtaining British citizenship can differ based on the path of eligibility you select. Common steps include completing the British citizenship application form online via the Home Office’s website, settling the citizenship fee, scheduling a biometric data submission at a UKVCAS service point, and submitting your documents to UKVI. Your chosen route may also necessitate the nomination of two referees to provide both personal and professional recommendations. Should the Home Office request additional details, prompt communication is crucial to prevent processing delays. Following approval, you’ll be invited to participate in a citizenship ceremony held near your location.
Tests Required
The Life in the UK Test is a prerequisite for British citizenship, designed to assess your understanding of British history and culture. It must be completed at an authorised test center. A wealth of resources, including online materials and guidebooks, are at your disposal to help prepare for the test. Exemptions are available for individuals under 18 or over 65, and for those with specific physical or mental health conditions.
To fulfil the English language criteria for British citizenship, one must either pass a CEFR English test at levels B1, B2, C1, or C2, or possess a degree that was taught or researched in English. Exemptions are provided for individuals under 18 or over 65, or those with certain physical or mental conditions. Additionally, this requirement is waived for nationals from countries including Barbados, Australia, Dominica, Grenada, Canada, St Kitts and Nevis, The Bahamas, Jamaica, Guyana, St Lucia, Malta, Antigua and Barbuda, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, USA, New Zealand, Belize.
The Ceremony
The Ceremony
The duration of a UK Citizenship ceremony is usually around two hours, and attendees are expected to dress formally. Jeans, shorts, or trainers are not allowed.
The highlight of the ceremony is pledging allegiance to the Queen through either the Oath or Affirmation and affirming loyalty to the UK, signifying your dedication to uphold the country’s laws, liberties, and rights. It is common for a notable local figure, like the mayor, to be present, and participants often get the chance to take an official photo with them. Following the conclusion of the ceremony, you are formally recognised as a British citizen, enabling you to request a British passport.
Decision Timeline
Decision Timeline
It typically takes about 6 months to get a decision on your British citizenship application, though more straightforward applications could be resolved within 1-3 months. If your application is complex or incomplete, the decision process might extend beyond 6 months. During this period, you’re allowed to travel based on your existing immigration status, but it’s crucial to notify the Home Office of any significant life changes, including moving house, getting married, or legal issues.
Can you appeal a British citizenship application that was refused?
Can you appeal a British citizenship application that was refused?
If your UK citizenship application is denied and your decision letter mentions you have the right to appeal, you may contest the decision. Nonetheless, not every applicant is entitled to an appeal. Should your application be declined by the Home Office, rest assured alternatives are usually accessible.
Understanding the specific reasons behind your application’s refusal is crucial, which will be detailed in your decision letter. Consulting with an immigration solicitor experienced in dealing with citizenship application rejections is advisable.
Unlocking the power of global talent
Unlocking the power of global talent
When your business secures a Sponsor Licence, it opens a gateway to a world of advantages. Here’s why it’s pivotal:
Faster recruitment
Say goodbye to lengthy recruitment processes. A Sponsor Licence allows you to swiftly bring in skilled workers from abroad or those already in the UK, reducing hiring timelines significantly.
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Access to global talent
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Access to global talent
A diverse team can fuel innovation and creativity, leading to business growth. By fostering diversity, you enhance your company's adaptability and problem-solving capabilities.
Eligibility Criteria for a Sponsor Licence
- Authentic business operation: Your organisation must be a bona fide entity operating lawfully in the United Kingdom.
- UK-based: You need to have your base of operations in the United Kingdom.
- Clean record: Demonstrate a clean slate concerning immigration control threats and criminal history, including money laundering, fraud, and immigration-related offences.
- Clean record: Demonstrate a clean slate concerning immigration control threats and criminal history, including money laundering, fraud, and immigration-related offences.
- Robust HR system: Maintain a robust HR system capable of efficiently fulfilling sponsor duties.
- Key personnel: Your key personnel should embody traits of honesty, dependability, and reliability.
Documents Required
- Authentic business operation: Your organisation must be a bona fide entity operating lawfully in the United Kingdom.
- UK-based: You need to have your base of operations in the United Kingdom.
- Clean record: Demonstrate a clean slate concerning immigration control threats and criminal history, including money laundering, fraud, and immigration-related offences.
- Clean record: Demonstrate a clean slate concerning immigration control threats and criminal history, including money laundering, fraud, and immigration-related offences.
- Robust HR system: Maintain a robust HR system capable of efficiently fulfilling sponsor duties.
- Key personnel: Your key personnel should embody traits of honesty, dependability, and reliability.
Application Processing Time
- Authentic business operation: Your organisation must be a bona fide entity operating lawfully in the United Kingdom.
- UK-based: You need to have your base of operations in the United Kingdom.
- Clean record: Demonstrate a clean slate concerning immigration control threats and criminal history, including money laundering, fraud, and immigration-related offences.
- Clean record: Demonstrate a clean slate concerning immigration control threats and criminal history, including money laundering, fraud, and immigration-related offences.
- Robust HR system: Maintain a robust HR system capable of efficiently fulfilling sponsor duties.
- Key personnel: Your key personnel should embody traits of honesty, dependability, and reliability.
Common reasons for refusal of Sponsor Licence Applications
Common reasons for refusal of Sponsor Licence Applications
1. High net worth experts
Before we start the process of acquiring your sponsor licence, we’ll ensure your business qualifies and that your job offerings meet the Home Office’s criteria. We review your situation from every angle possible – No more worrying about eligibility checks.
2. Personalised experience
Before we start the process of acquiring your sponsor licence, we’ll ensure your business qualifies and that your job offerings meet the Home Office’s criteria. We review your situation from every angle possible – No more worrying about eligibility checks.
3. Complex case experts
Before we start the process of acquiring your sponsor licence, we’ll ensure your business qualifies and that your job offerings meet the Home Office’s criteria. We review your situation from every angle possible – No more worrying about eligibility checks.
4. No blind spots
Before we start the process of acquiring your sponsor licence, we’ll ensure your business qualifies and that your job offerings meet the Home Office’s criteria. We review your situation from every angle possible – No more worrying about eligibility checks.
Facilitating Global Talent Acquisition for an American EV Automotive Company
Immigration Guidance for a US Law Firm’s UK Expansion
Sponsor Licence Application for UK CEO and Specialists in Renewable Energy Project
Global Recruitment Support For One of the Largest Vertical Farming Units in The World
European Private Equity Firm Expands in UK with Sponsor Licence & Global Mobility
FCA Regulated Bank Secures Sponsor Licences for Senior Leadership and Key Workers
Our Testimonials
Our Testimonials
This firm can only be described as excellent. Their knowledge of immigration law is second to none. The fast efficient way that they deal with situations is first-class professionalism at its very best. Once you have used Jay and his team you will never use anyone else.
Jay Moghal of Rove Legal is extremely professional and has deep and impressive knowledge of all aspects of immigration law and procedure. He is creative and a great communicator, fierce and energising, encouraging the pursuit of his clients’ cases with impeccable judgement. I would not hesitate to recommend Jay. His knowledge and professionalism shines through in every event.
Jay and his team assisted with switching over from a student BRP to a spousal one. All I had to do was show up to my appointment and take my fingerprints/photos. They handled the rest! What a dream.
Rove Legal were an absolute dream to deal with. Jay Moghal was our appointed lawyer and he was excellent to deal with. He ensured we submitted all of the required documents and when our application was delayed with COVID challenges he chased the UK Government to expedite the issue and ensure a successful outcome. Highly recommend Rove Legal and Jay to anyone who needs immigration to support.
Highly recommended. Jay is a thorough professional, who reviewed the case in depth, looked after all the aspects and his suggestions on what I should submit with the case were spot on. I don’t think my case would have been accepted without his help.
I had a very good experience with Mr Jay Moghal. I faced a couple of problems and appreciate his professionalism and transparency to deal with my issues and solve the problem. I highly recommend him.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to become a British citizen?
Will I need to attend a ceremony?
Yes, if your citizenship application is successful and you are 18 years old or over, you will need to attend a citizenship ceremony within three months of receiving your Home Office invitation letter. You can book your ceremony online and, depending on your local authority, you may be able to have a ‘virtual ceremony’ online. The fee for the ceremony is included in your application fee.
How long does it take to get citizenship?
Home Office processing times for citizenship applications can vary greatly. In most cases, you should receive a decision within six months, but more complex applications can take longer. It can take up to three months from being told your application was successful to get your Home Office invitation letter, at which point you will have up to three months to book and attend your ceremony.
If you want to travel outside of the UK, you will also need to apply for a British passport in order to gain entry back into the country.
