Naturalisation as a British Citizen
The Form AN Application
Becoming a British citizen through naturalisation is a significant step that grants you the right to hold a British passport and fully participate in UK society. The process is governed by the British Nationality Act of 1981, and approval is not guaranteed—it’s granted at the discretion of the Home Secretary, even if you meet the basic requirements.
The application for this process is called Form AN. This form requires you to provide a wide range of personal information, including your biographical details, residency history, and employment information. You must also provide proof of your current immigration status.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility for naturalisation depends on your personal circumstances, particularly whether you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen.
Applying as the Spouse or Civil Partner of a British Citizen
To apply under this category, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen on the day of application.
- Be of sound mind.
- Meet the English language requirement (by passing an approved test or being exempt).
- Have passed the Life in the UK test.
- Meet the good character requirement.
- Intend to continue living in the UK.
- Have met the 3-year residence requirement before applying.
- Note: The residence requirement may be waived if your partner is in Crown or designated service outside the UK.
Who Can Apply?
If you are not married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be of sound mind.
- Intend to continue living in the UK.
- Meet the English language requirement.
- Have passed the Life in the UK test.
- Intend to continue living in the UK.
- Meet the good character requirement.
- Have met the 5-year residence requirement before applying.
Key Sections of Form AN
The application is broken down into several sections that cover all the necessary criteria:
- Personal and Identification Details: This includes your contact information, details about your parents and partner, and your employment history in the UK.
- Residence Requirements: This is a critical section where you must detail all absences from the UK over the last five years. Failure to meet the residency criteria is a common reason for application refusal.
- Good Character Requirement: You must disclose any criminal convictions, current legal proceedings, or other issues that could affect your standing, such as a criminal record, financial problems (bankruptcy or debt), or a history of immigration violations.
- Crown Service: This section is for applicants or their partners who work for the Crown or in a designated service.
- Referees: You must provide details for two referees. One must be a professional of any nationality (e.g., a doctor or minister), and the other must be a British national over the age of 25. Both must not be related to you or each other and must not have any recent serious criminal convictions.
- Biometrics and Declaration: You will be required to provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) and sign a final declaration.
Required Documents
Along with your completed Form AN, you’ll need to submit several supporting documents, which may include:
- A valid passport or other travel documents.
- Proof of your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settlement status.
- Proof of your English language ability and passing the Life in the UK test.
- Your marriage or civil partnership certificate (if applicable).
- Financial documents, such as payslips or self-assessment documents for self-employed individuals.
The Application Process and What to Expect
Most applications for British citizenship can be completed and paid for online. After submitting the form, you’ll be directed to upload your supporting documents and book a biometric appointment. Some paper applications are still accepted via post, but this is less common.
The process can take up to six months, though many applications are decided sooner. If your application is successful, you will receive an approval letter and an invitation to a citizenship ceremony. You officially become a British citizen only after attending this ceremony and receiving your naturalisation certificate. Afterward, you can apply for your first British passport.
It’s important to be aware that some countries do not permit dual citizenship. If your country’s laws require you to renounce your current citizenship, you may need to do so after your application is successful. Due to the complexity of these rules, it is highly recommended that you seek advice from an immigration solicitor or advisor before applying.
