United Kingdom — Residency: Citizenship

Key facts

• You need to have lived in the UK lawfully for 5 years, or 3 years if married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, without excess absences; the 3-year route allows no more than 270 days abroad in the period and 90 in the final year.
• You must be free from immigration time restrictions on the date of application and for at least 12 months before, unless married to a British citizen; indefinite leave to remain meets this.
• You must pass the Life in the UK test and show knowledge of English at B1 CEFR or higher via a Home Office approved test or qualifying degree or nationality.
• You must intend to make the UK your future home (unless married to a British citizen) and be of good character.
• The 450-day absence limit appears in the registration guidance (Guide B2), not standard naturalisation; check the current naturalisation guide for the 5-year limits.

Steps

1. Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria — Check the UK Government's website for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements, which may include age, residency, language, and character requirements.
2. Step 2: Prepare for the Citizenship Test — Familiarize yourself with the test format, content, and required language proficiency.
3. Step 3: Submit an Application — Gather required documents, including a valid passport, and submit an application through the UK Government's online portal.
4. Step 4: Biometric Data Collection — Attend a biometric data collection appointment, where you will provide fingerprints and a photograph.
5. Step 5: Citizenship Ceremony — Attend a citizenship ceremony, where you will take the oath of allegiance and receive your certificate of naturalization.