What are the requirements for naturalisation as a British citizen?

You must be at least 18, hold ILR for at least 12 months, have lived in the UK for 5 years (or 3 if married to a British citizen), not have exceeded the absence limits, pass the Life in the UK test, meet the English language requirement, and satisfy the good character test.

How long does the naturalisation process take?

From submitting your application to receiving your citizenship certificate, expect 6-12 months. Processing times vary and can be checked on GOV.UK. After the decision, you must attend a citizenship ceremony within 3 months.

How much does naturalisation cost in 2026?

The application fee is £1,344 for adults (£1,214 application fee + £130 ceremony fee). Additional costs include the Life in the UK test (£50), English language test (if needed), and biometrics (usually included in the application fee).

Can I naturalise if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the nature and severity of the offence. Minor offences (such as speeding fines) may not prevent naturalisation. Serious or recent convictions are likely to result in refusal. The Home Office assesses each case individually under the good character requirement.

British Citizenship by Naturalisation: Full Guide 2026

Naturalisation is the standard route to British citizenship for adults who have settled in the UK. You must hold ILR for at least 12 months, meet residence and absence requirements, pass the Life in the UK test, meet the English language standard, and have good character. This guide covers the full process.

Who Can Apply

You can apply for naturalisation if you:

Are aged 18 or over
Hold indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK
Have held ILR for at least 12 months at the date of application
Meet the residence requirements
Intend to continue living in the UK (or working overseas for a UK employer or international organisation)

The requirements are set out in the British Nationality Act 1981 and the Home Office guidance on naturalisation.

Residence Requirements

Standard Route (Not Married to a British Citizen)

Resident in the UK for at least 5 years before the date of application
Not absent for more than 450 days during those 5 years
Not absent for more than 90 days in the final 12 months
Held ILR for the final 12 months

Married to a British Citizen

Resident in the UK for at least 3 years before the date of application
Not absent for more than 270 days during those 3 years
Not absent for more than 90 days in the final 12 months
Held ILR at the date of application (no 12-month waiting period required)

For detailed absence guidance, see our citizenship absences guide.

Knowledge Requirements

You must demonstrate knowledge of English and of life in the UK:

Life in the UK test: A computer-based test covering British history, culture, traditions, and government. You need to pass once — the certificate does not expire.
English language: B1 level or above in speaking and listening. You can prove this through a recognised English test, a degree taught in English, or nationality of a majority English-speaking country.

Some people are exempt from these requirements. See our exemptions guide.

Good Character

The good character requirement covers:

Criminal record (UK and overseas)
Immigration history (overstaying, deception, breaches)
Financial affairs (bankruptcy, tax evasion)
Behaviour and associations

You must declare everything on the application form. The Home Office checks police records, HMRC data, and other databases.

The Application Process

1. Check your eligibility using the eligibility checker
2. Gather your documents
3. Apply online and pay the application fee
4. Complete biometrics
5. Wait for a decision (6-12 months)
6. Attend a citizenship ceremony

Costs

The total cost of naturalisation includes:

Application fee: £1,344
Life in the UK test: £50
English language test: £150-£200 (if needed)
Biometrics: included in the application fee
Solicitor fees: £500-£1,500 (optional)

If the fee causes financial hardship, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.

After Naturalisation

Once you become British, you gain the full benefits of citizenship. Apply for your British passport, register to vote, and enjoy the security of permanent status. If you hold another nationality, check our dual citizenship guide.

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