Ways to Qualify for British Citizenship

Automatic Citizenship by Birth

• Children born in the UK automatically acquire British Citizenship if at least one parent was a British Citizen or held ILR at the time of their birth. These children can apply directly for a British passport.
• Children born outside the UK may automatically acquire citizenship if at least one parent was a British Citizen “otherwise than by descent” at the time of birth.

Citizenship laws for children can be complex—contact us for a personalised assessment.

Citizenship Through Registration
Children who do not acquire British Citizenship at birth may be eligible to register if:

• At least one parent gains ILR after their birth. These children do not need to obtain ILR before applying.
• They were born abroad, and both parents now hold or are applying for British Citizenship or settled. The child must have the settled status as well. In such cases, registration is granted at the discretion of the Home Secretary.

Citizenship Through Naturalisation
Adults who have obtained ILR or Permanent Residency can apply for British Citizenship after holding this status for 12 months. However, those married to a British Citizen can apply immediately after receiving ILR.

General Requirements:

• Residency: Must have lived in the UK for 5 years (or 3 years if married to a British Citizen).
• Physical Presence: Must have been physically present in the UK exactly 5 or 3 years before the application date.
• Absence Limits: No more than 450 days outside the UK in 5 years (270 days in 3 years for spouses). No more than 90 days outside the UK in the last 12 months.
• Good Character: No serious criminal convictions.
• Language & Life Test: Must meet the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK requirement (unless ILR was granted after 28 October 2013).
• Referees: Two referees must endorse the application—one must be a professional, while the other must be a British Citizen and either a professional or over 25 years old.

Application Process

• Adults apply using form AN, while children apply using form MN1.
• Successful applicants must attend a citizenship ceremony, where they will take an oath of allegiance and receive a citizenship certificate.

How We Can Help

At Ultimate Visas, we provide expert guidance on all aspects of British Citizenship applications. Our services include:

• Reviewing references and supporting documents.
• Advising on all necessary evidence.
• Assisting with complex cases, including residency and absence calculations.