British Naturalisation & Citizenship

Apply for citizenship if you have indefinite leave to remain or 'settled status'

After you’ve applied

You’ll usually get a decision within 6 months - some applications can take longer.

It may take longer than the usual 6 months to get a decision because of coronavirus (COVID-19). This will not affect the decision.

You’ll be told if you need to provide more information to help with your application.

If your circumstances change

You should contact UK Visas and Immigration (part of the Home Office) if your situation changes during your application (for example, you move house, get married or are arrested).

Nationality contact centre
nationalityenquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk

You might be asked to attend an interview where you’ll need to speak without an interpreter.

Attending a citizenship ceremony

You’ll need to attend a citizenship ceremony if your application is successful.

After you get your certificate

You must send your biometric residence permit (BRP) back to the Home Office within 5 working days of getting your certificate of British citizenship.

Cut your BRP into 4 pieces and put it in a windowless envelope.

Include a note saying you’re returning your permit because you’ve become a citizen. Include your name, date of birth and the document number (found on the front of the card) in the note.

Naturalisation BRP Returns
PO Box 195
Bristol
BS20 1BT

You’ll be fined up to £1,000 if you do not return your permit within 5 working days.

Travelling to and from the UK

Once you have a British passport you must use this to enter the UK.

If you do not want a British passport you can apply for a certificate of entitlement instead.

You cannot enter the UK using your BRP or certificate of British citizenship.

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