🇬🇧 United Kingdom · Citizenship
Naturalization and citizenship-by-investment: residence years, language and civics tests, dual-citizenship rules, and multi-passport planning.
Quick answer
British citizenship by naturalization usually requires holding ILR (settlement) for at least 12 months, five years' lawful UK residence, good character, and passing the Life in the UK test and English requirement. The UK allows dual citizenship.
British citizenship by naturalisation is usually open to adults who have lived lawfully in the UK for five years (three if married to or the civil partner of a British citizen), normally hold ILR/settled status for at least the final 12 months, pass the Life in the UK test, meet an English-language requirement and are of good character. The government has consulted on lengthening the residence requirement, so verify the current rule on GOV.UK.
- Usually five years' lawful residence (three as the spouse/civil partner of a British citizen), with ILR/settled status normally held for the final 12 months.
- You must pass the Life in the UK test and meet an English (or Welsh/Scottish Gaelic) language requirement.
- Good character and limits on absences apply; you apply on Form AN.
- The UK permits dual citizenship; a 2025–26 review proposed a longer residence period — confirm the current rule on GOV.UK.
Official authorities
- Check if you can become a British citizen (GOV.UK)
Official eligibility and application guidance.
Frequently asked questions
How long after ILR can I apply for citizenship?
Usually 12 months after getting ILR, with no wait if you are married to a British citizen and meet the other rules.
What tests are required?
The Life in the UK test and an English language requirement, unless you are exempt.
Does the UK allow dual citizenship?
Yes — the UK permits dual or multiple citizenship.
Official-information aggregation, not legal advice. Always verify on the authority's own site.
Government portals
- UK Government (GOV.UK) — UK's unified government services portal — visas, taxes, driving licences, benefits and more
- UK Visas and Immigration — UK visa applications, Biometric Residence Permits (BRP), and work authorization
- HM Revenue & Customs — Self Assessment tax returns, National Insurance, VAT registration and payment