NATURALISATION AND BRITISH CIIZENSHIP


The law relating to nationality or citizenship forms the background to immigration law because a person’s right to live in the country of his choice depends on hi nationality. In UK Law, a British Citizen has a right to live in the UK. There are two categories of people who have a statutory right of abode in the UK. All British citizens and certain commonwealth citizens. A person with the right of abode can freely enter the UK. The Home offices provide certain requirements if you want to be naturalised as a British Citizen:

If you are married to or the civil partner of a British citizen (section 6(2) of the British Nationality Act 1981)

The legal requirements you should meet before you apply are that you:

  • Are aged 18 or over when you apply

  • Are married to or the civil partner of a British citizen on the date of application

  • Are of sound mind, so that you understand the step you are taking (but see section 7 for those who are not of sound mind)

  • Can communicate in English (or Welsh or Scottish Gaelic) to an acceptable degree

  • Have sufficient knowledge about life in the UK

  • Are of good character

  • Have lived in the UK for a minimum of 3 years before you apply and meet certain residence requirements

Our solicitors will check if you meet the guideline and will assist you in filling in the right form. We will also be able to tell you if you need to sit the Life in the UK Test or you are exempt. It will be in your best interest to have a ‘good character’ when you apply. The Home office will also assess your character and suitability through the ‘good character’ requirements. Each individual case shall be assessed on their own circumstances and any issued relating to good character and how it affects your application will be outlined.