British citizenship is the final step in the UK immigration journey — and it comes with a UK passport, full voting rights, and the permanent right to live in the UK with no immigration conditions.
Who can apply for citizenship by naturalisation?
- ✓Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or EU Settled Status
- ✓Have lived in the UK for at least 5 years (6 years for some routes)
- ✓Not been outside the UK for more than 450 days in the 5 years before applying
- ✓Not been outside the UK for more than 90 days in the 12 months immediately before applying
- ✓Pass the Life in the UK test
- ✓Meet the English language requirement (B1 speaking and listening)
- ✓Meet the 'good character' requirement
The 12-month wait after ILR
Most applicants must wait at least 12 months after receiving ILR before applying for citizenship. There is one exception: spouses and civil partners of British citizens can apply for citizenship immediately after obtaining Settled Status or ILR — they do not need to wait 12 months.
The Life in the UK test
The Life in the UK test consists of 24 multiple-choice questions from the official study handbook. You need 18 out of 24 (75%) to pass. The test costs £50 and is taken at approved centres across the UK. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it.
💡 Tip
Book the test through the official GOV.UK portal only. Use the official handbook "Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents" — the questions are drawn directly from it. Third-party apps can help you practise, but the official book is the source.
English language requirement
For naturalisation, you need to demonstrate B1 English in speaking and listening. This is the same level required for most ILR applications — note it is lower than the proposed B2 requirement for ILR from March 2027. If you passed B1 for your ILR, your certificate may still be valid for citizenship (check the expiry date).
The good character requirement
Good character covers criminal record, immigration history, tax compliance, and civic behaviour. Minor historical offences may not automatically disqualify you, but serious criminal convictions, significant immigration violations, or large outstanding tax debts can result in refusal. Disclose everything honestly — the Home Office carries out extensive background checks.
How much does naturalisation cost in 2026?
- ✓Naturalisation application fee: £1,500
- ✓Citizenship ceremony (paid to local council): ~£80
- ✓Life in the UK test: £50 per sitting
- ✓English language test (if needed): varies by provider (£150–£200 typical)
- ✓Total estimated minimum: ~£1,630
What do you get with British citizenship?
- ✓A British passport — visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 189+ countries
- ✓Full permanent right of abode in the UK with no immigration conditions ever
- ✓Right to vote in UK general elections
- ✓Right to stand for public office
- ✓Ability to pass citizenship to children born abroad
- ✓UK dual citizenship is permitted (check your home country's rules on dual nationality)
Check your ILR eligibility date before planning your citizenship timeline
Open ILR Calculator →