British Citizenship

Although it is not compulsory to become a British Citizen, this is something many people who have made the UK their permanent home may wish to consider. British nationality law is one of the most complex areas of UK law due to the UK’s historical relationship with many other countries in the world. In some cases it will be necessary to trace back several generations to identify whether you are a British Citizen or are entitled to British Citizenship.

Naturalisation is the most common way for adults who were not born in the UK to become British. People who have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) can, subject to fulfilling residence requirements, apply to naturalise as British Citizens.

Registration as a British citizen

Registration is the only way in which children born outside the UK can become British and is also used for adults in special circumstances. It is necessary for those over ten years old to be of good character, however it is not necessary to demonstrate knowledge of the English language and life in the UK. Children born in the UK, to parents who are in the UK through a temporary visa category can register as British as soon as one of their parents obtains settled status in the UK.

Right of Abode

There any many forms of British nationality, such as British Overseas Territories Citizenship, British Subject and British National (Overseas). Unlike British Citizenship, these other forms might not normally give you a right to live in the UK, although they may be a step toward becoming a British Citizen.

The Right of Abode in the UK, is a certificate of entitlement which allows a person to live and work in the United Kingdom without restriction. Holders of this type of visa for Britain may enter and leave the country free of Immigration control and use gates for British passport holders at UK ports and airports.

Migra & Co is proud of its reputation in this specialist area of law. We trust that the above information is a useful initial overview, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our team.

Speak to one of our British Citizenship visa consultants now to discuss your tailor made visa solution. Call us on +44 20 3384 3075, email: [email protected] or use contact form below.