British Citizenship by Naturalisation
Become a British Citizen After Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Apply for Naturalisation through Legate Hub | Professional legal representation for ILR holders seeking full UK citizenship
Overview
British Citizenship by Naturalisation is the final step for most migrants who hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or permanent residence status in the United Kingdom. Successful applicants become full British citizens, gaining the right to a UK passport and unrestricted residence. Legate Hub assists with verifying eligibility, residence calculations, and document preparation to ensure that your application meets Home Office standards.
Eligibility Requirements
- You must be aged 18 or over and of sound mind.
- You must have held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or permanent residence for at least 12 months before applying (unless married to a British citizen).
- You must have lived lawfully in the UK for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a British citizen).
- You must have been physically present in the UK exactly 5 years (3 years) before the date the Home Office receives your application.
- You must not have spent more than 450 days outside the UK in the qualifying period (270 days if married to a British citizen).
- You must not have been absent from the UK for more than 90 days in the last 12 months before application.
- You must have passed the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement (B1 CEFR or higher).
- You must be of good character — no serious criminal offences or immigration breaches.
Required Documents Checklist
- Valid passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
- Proof of ILR status (Home Office approval letter or share code for settled status).
- Life in the UK Test pass certificate.
- English language certificate or degree taught in English (with UK NARIC confirmation if applicable).
- Evidence of residence in the UK for the relevant qualifying period (payslips, P60s, employer letters, tenancy agreements, bills).
- Marriage certificate (if applying as the spouse of a British citizen).
- Two referees (one professional and one British citizen of standing) who have known you for at least three years.
- Certified translations for any non-English documents.
Application Process
- Step 1 – Eligibility Assessment: Legate Hub reviews your ILR status, residence records and absences to confirm eligibility for naturalisation.
- Step 2 – Evidence Preparation: Download the Naturalisation Checklist from our Document Centre below. We assist in compiling residence evidence and referee forms to Home Office standards.
- Step 3 – Application Submission: Legate Hub prepares and submits the AN form online, arranges the application fee payment and biometric appointment booking.
- Step 4 – Biometrics & Decision: Attend your appointment at the UKVCAS centre. We monitor your application and respond to any requests for further information from UKVI.
- Step 5 – Citizenship Ceremony: If approved, you will receive an invitation to attend a citizenship ceremony. Legate Hub advises on next steps including passport application and dual citizenship considerations.
Typical Processing Timeline
| Service | Typical Timeframe* |
|---|---|
| Standard Naturalisation Application | Approximately 6 months from biometric appointment. |
| Complex Case or Referee Clarification | May extend to 8 – 12 months depending on Home Office enquiries. |
Note: Residence outside the UK during the application period can affect eligibility. Legate Hub ensures all timing and presence requirements are calculated accurately before submission.
Apply through Legate Hub – Start Your British Citizenship Application
Download Application Forms
- Naturalisation Application Checklist (PDF)
- Referee Form Template (PDF)
- Residence Days Calculation Guide (PDF)
Download and complete the above templates before your consultation. Legate Hub reviews each document for accuracy and consistency with Home Office policy.
Why Choose Legate Hub
Legate Hub provides comprehensive legal representation for citizenship applications, ensuring that ILR holders transition smoothly to full British citizenship. Our solicitors prepare robust, well-documented applications and advise on dual nationality and passport entitlements with precision and care.
Book a Consultation
Ready to become a British citizen? Contact Legate Hub today for expert guidance and start your Naturalisation application with confidence.