Naturalisation

British citizenship by naturalisation: residence, Life in the UK test, English, good character, and fees explained.

Reviewed by Border & Boundaries Immigration Team·Last updated 30 Aug 2026

Overview

Naturalisation is how most adults become British citizens after holding ILR or settled status. You must usually meet residence, good character, English language, and Life in the UK test requirements. Every application is assessed on its own facts.

Overview & Eligibility

What is naturalisation?

Naturalisation is the main adult route to British citizenship. It is discretionary and based on residence, character, English, and the Life in the UK test. Fees and absence limits are set by the Home Office and may change.

Who may qualify

Adults with ILR or settled status who meet the five-year (or three-year spouse) residence rules, pass required tests, and satisfy good character may qualify. Holding ILR alone is not enough.

Life in the UK test

Most applicants must pass the Life in the UK test before applying. Book early and keep the certificate. Exemptions are limited — age and some medical situations may apply.

Requirements & Evidence

Residence and absences

Count days outside the UK carefully against the published limits for your route. Excessive absences in the final year are a common problem.

Good character

Criminal convictions, unpaid fines, tax issues, and immigration breaches are considered. Disclose fully — non-disclosure is often worse than the offence.

English and Life in the UK

Keep valid certificates ready. Using an old ILR English certificate is sometimes possible; we check what still counts for citizenship.

Applying, Costs & Refusals

How to apply for British citizenship

Apply online, pay the fee, upload evidence, and attend a biometric appointment. After approval you are invited to a citizenship ceremony before applying for a passport.

Costs & processing time

The naturalisation fee is substantial and changes over time. Ceremony and passport fees are separate. Processing often takes several months. Instalment options, if any, depend on current Home Office policy.

Common reasons applications are refused

Absences outside the permitted limits
Good-character issues that were not disclosed or explained
Missing Life in the UK or English certificates
Applying before holding ILR or settled status for the required period
Incomplete residence evidence

Key Requirements

Residency (general)	Usually 5 years of lawful residence, within published absence limits
Residency (spouse of British citizen)	Usually 3 years of lawful residence with the same absence limits
ILR / settled status	Must usually hold ILR, settled status, or right of abode at application
Good character	Criminal record, immigration history, and financial conduct are assessed
Life in the UK Test	Must usually be passed before applying (unless exempt)
English language	Usually B1 speaking and listening, or exempt due to age or disability

Typical Supporting Documents

Passport and BRP or settled status confirmation
ILR grant letter or biometric residence evidence
Life in the UK test pass certificate
English language test certificate (if required)
Evidence of residence (bills, bank statements, tenancy agreements)
Travel history and absence records
Marriage certificate (if applying on the spouse residence route)

Frequently Asked Questions

How to apply for British citizenship?

Most adults apply online for naturalisation after meeting residence and ILR or settled status requirements, then upload evidence and give biometrics. After approval you attend a ceremony. We confirm your route and timing first.

How much does British citizenship cost?

You pay the Home Office naturalisation fee. Ceremony and passport costs are extra. Amounts change, so we confirm the current total before you apply.

What documents do I need to apply for British citizenship?

Typically identity documents, proof of ILR or settled status, Life in the UK and English certificates where required, residence evidence, and travel history. Spouse-route applicants also need marriage evidence.

How long does a British citizenship application take?

Many decisions take several months. Complex good-character or residence cases can take longer. We set expectations based on your history at consultation.

Can I pay for British citizenship in instalments?

Home Office fee payment options change over time. Some applicants look for instalment arrangements; availability is not guaranteed. We confirm what is currently offered when you are ready to file.

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