Having a British citizenship could be the ultimate goal in your UK immigration journey and a crystallization of your dreams, hardwork and planning.
There are several routes you can take to enter the UK.
To secure a British citizenship, you must have spent a certain period of time in the UK. The specific time requirement is based on your current immigration status and your visa validity.
How to become a British citizen?
UK nationality can be acquired in the following ways:
- By the process of naturalisation: for adult applicants who were not born in the UK.
- By the process of registration: only for specific applicants who hold different forms of British nationality, or have connections to the UK.
- By birth in the UK: when at least one parent is a British national or a settled person in the UK at the time of the applicant’s birth.
- By birth abroad: if a child was born outside the UK to British parents, they will not be automatically called as a British citizen. The applicant’s parents must complete the MN1 application form before the applicant is 18 years of age to become a British citizen.
- By the process of adoption: if the adoption document is made before the child is 18 years of age and by a court in the UK.
What documents do I need to apply for British citizenship?
You will have to provide the following documents with your application form,
- Your current passport
- A valid identity card
- Proof you have current Indefinite Leave to Remain status
- Proof of your English language proficiency test
- Pass certificate of the Life in the UK test
- The marriage or civil partnership certificate, if applicable in your case
- P60 forms for the previous six years or five years if married to a British citizen
- Salary payslips to prove your income
- Self-employed applicants need self-assessment statements for each year of the six or five years.
Benefits of British citizenship
There are several advantages to becoming a British citizen. One of the most important advantages is the sense of security and peace of mind of living in the UK. You can travel in and out of the UK freely and for as long as you want unrestricted. You can participate in elections and exercise your right to vote. You will be eligible for all the benefits and healthcare.