British citizenship is the legal status that gives a person the right to live permanently in the United Kingdom and enjoy a range of legal rights and responsibilities. It is one of several forms of British nationality, but it is the most common and provides the strongest connection to the UK. British citizens have the right to apply for a British passport, vote in most elections if they meet the legal requirements, work without immigration restrictions, and receive protection from the UK government when abroad.
A person can become a British citizen in several ways. The first is by birth, although being born in the UK does not automatically make someone a British citizen. Since 1 January 1983, at least one parent must usually be a British citizen or have settled status in the UK at the time of the child’s birth. Another way is by descent, where a child born outside the UK may automatically become a British citizen if one of their parents is a British citizen, depending on the circumstances. People can also become British citizens through registration or naturalisation. Registration is available for certain groups, including some children and people with a specific legal entitlement. Naturalisation is the most common route for adults who have lived legally in the UK for the required period.
To apply for naturalisation, an applicant must normally be at least 18 years old, have held indefinite leave to remain or settled status for the required length of time, and meet residency requirements. Applicants must usually have lived in the UK for at least five years, or three years if they are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen. They must also show good character, meaning they have obeyed the law and met their legal obligations, such as paying taxes when required.
Applicants for British citizenship are usually required to prove their knowledge of English, Welsh, or Scottish Gaelic. Most adults must also pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses knowledge of British history, traditions, government, and everyday life. These requirements are designed to ensure that new citizens understand the country’s values, institutions, and culture.
After a successful application, most adults attend a citizenship ceremony. During the ceremony, they make an oath or affirmation of allegiance to the Monarch and pledge loyalty to the United Kingdom. Once the ceremony is complete, they receive a certificate of British citizenship. They may then apply for a British passport if they wish to travel as a British citizen.
British citizenship also carries responsibilities. Citizens are expected to obey UK laws, respect the rights of others, and contribute to society. Those who are eligible can vote in elections and may stand for public office. Citizens may also be called for jury service if selected. While citizenship provides many rights, it also reflects a commitment to the democratic values and legal system of the United Kingdom.
British citizenship can sometimes be lost or renounced. A person may voluntarily give up their citizenship if they already hold another nationality. In limited circumstances, the UK government may deprive a person of British citizenship if this is allowed by law, such as in cases involving fraud during the application process or where it is considered conducive to the public good. However, legal safeguards apply, and decisions can often be challenged through the courts.
Overall, British citizenship represents full membership of the United Kingdom. It provides security, legal rights, and opportunities while also requiring individuals to fulfil important civic responsibilities. The rules governing citizenship are set out in UK law and are intended to balance individual rights with the interests of the country.
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What does British citizenship give you?
The right to hold a British passport. full civic rights – this includes the right to vote in elections and the right to stand for public office. free NHS medical care. no restrictions on your right to work.
There are different ways to apply for British citizenship (or ‘naturalisation’) based on your circumstances.
If you’re eligible in more than one way you can choose which way to apply.
Check if you can become a British citizen
Check if you are a British Citizen
Applying for citizenship if you have a British parent
Types of British Citizenship
- British citizen
- British overseas territories citizen
- British overseas citizen
- British subject
- British national (overseas)
- British protected person
A collection of guidance for British nationality and to obtain evidence to the right of abode in the UK.
Citizenship ceremonies
You need to attend a citizenship ceremony if you’re 18 or over and have successfully applied to become a British citizen.
During the ceremony
At the ceremony you will have to make an oath of allegiance (or an affirmation if you prefer not to swear by God) and a pledge. This means you promise to respect the rights, freedoms and laws of the UK.
At the end of the ceremony you’ll be presented with your certificate of British citizenship and a welcome pack. If you attend a virtual ceremony, you’ll be sent a copy of the certificate afterwards.
British passport eligibility
You can apply for a British passport if you have British nationality. But there are some circumstances where your application can be refused or your existing passport can be retained.
Fees for citizenship applications
Information about fees for citizenship and right of abode applications and payment slip.
