British Citizenship by Marriage
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Eligibility Requirements
1. Residency Status
- Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or EU Settled Status (You must have ILR before applying - citizenship is not automatic)
2. Length of Residence
- Lived in the UK for at least 3 years before applying
- Been married to a British citizen for 3+ years
3. Physical Presence Requirement
- Not spent more than 270 days outside the UK in the last 3 years
- Not been absent for more than 90 days in the final year before applying
4. Good Character Requirement
- No serious criminal record or immigration fraud
- Paid all UK taxes
- Not breached any UK immigration rules
5. Language & Life in the UK Test
- Passed B1 level English test (or have a degree taught in English)
- Passed the Life in the UK Test
6. Future Intentions
- Plan to live permanently in the UK
- Your British spouse must not be planning to emigrate
Application Process
Step 1: Get Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Most spouses need 5 years on a spouse visa before ILR
- EU citizens may qualify for Settled Status instead
Step 2: Meet the 3-Year Residence Rule
- You must have lived in the UK for 3 years before applying
- Your British spouse must have been a citizen for at least 3 years
Step 3: Submit Citizenship Application
- Apply online via Form AN
- Pay £1,580 (includes £80 citizenship ceremony fee)
- Attend a biometrics appointment
Step 4: Attend Citizenship Ceremony
- If approved, you must swear an oath at a local ceremony
Required Documents
- Passport & BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
- Marriage certificate (translated if not in English)
- Proof of English language ability
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate
- Proof of residency (utility bills, council tax statements)
- UK spouse’s British passport or birth certificate
Common Reasons for Refusal
- ❌ Spent too much time outside the UK
- ❌ Failed the Life in the UK or English test
- ❌ Criminal record or immigration breaches
- ❌ Applied before getting ILR/Settled Status
Benefits of British Citizenship
- ✔ Full right to live, work & study in the UK permanently
- ✔ Visa-free travel to 180+ countries
- ✔ Right to vote & stand in elections
- ✔ Pass British citizenship to future children
At Nationwide Lawyers, our experienced immigration specialists are here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re applying for a visa, facing a legal challenge, or need guidance tailored to your unique situation, we’re just a call or click away.
