British Citizenship – Who Can Apply?

British citizenship means access to a ton of privileges and excellent benefits. For one, you get to vote in local and parliamentary elections, and thus play a part in deciding the future of the country.

That’s indeed a very big privilege!

You can also avail NHS services for FREE, meaning, you’re always (and well) protected in case of injury or sickness.

And if you like to hop between countries, what could be better than holding a British passport in your hand and travelling freely across the EU?

Of course, unless you were born in the UK and have lived there, you do not automatically qualify for a British citizenship; you need to apply for it.

Who can apply for British citizenship?

Both EU and non-EU citizens can apply for British citizenship.

In case of EU citizens

If you’re an EU citizen, and you wish to apply for British citizenship, you must hold permanent residence status in the country for the last 12 months; it’s the basic requirement. However, with Brexit in pending, this requirement may change come 29^thMarch, 2017.

Other requirements include:

• You should be over 18 years old
• You must be proficient in the use of the English language
• You should have knowledge of UK history and culture
• You should be of good character
• You should have no serious criminal record
• You must be currently living in the UK

In case of non-EU citizens

Many of the requirements for non-EU citizens for applying for British citizenship are same to those as specified for EU citizens. Except, for a few additions.

These include:

• You must have lived at least 5 years (3 years if you’re applying as a spouse of a settled partner) in the UK prior to your date of application
• You should have spent no more than 450 days outside of the UK during the 5-year period
• You should have spent no more than 90 days within the last 12 months of making the application

Complying to these requirements confirm your eligibility status. However, that does not mean you will certainly get British citizenship. It all depends on your application and the documents you submit with it.

Need help with applying for British citizenship?

Wembley Solicitors is at your service!

We’re a leading immigration legal service firm based in Wembley. Our expert team of immigration solicitors has years of experience in helping clients apply for British citizenship successfully. Get in touch with us today to discuss your case.