Joint Applications for British Citizenship

In this post, we explore the topic of joint applications for British citizenship. Becoming a British citizen can be a complicated process, requiring applicants to meet specific eligibility criteria and provide extensive documentation. However, for family members who wish to acquire British nationality, there is an option to apply together as a unit (adults and children), which can offer some unique benefits.

Benefits of applying for joint British citizenship

A joint British citizenship application allows couples and families to apply for citizenship together, making the process more streamlined and efficient. Instead of submitting separate applications and documentation, a joint application can be submitted with all the required documentation for everyone included in the application. This can save time and reduce the administrative burden.

However, it’s important to understand that each applicant in a joint application must meet the citizenship criteria individually. For example, in a family of four adults (over 18), the father, mother and two children must meet the criteria for Naturalisation under Section 6 (1) of the British Nationality Act 1981.

A benefit of a joint application is that you may become British citizens simultaneously. However many of the costs associated with the application process, such as application fees, and language tests, are the same regardless of whether you apply individually or as a group.

There may be situations where it is beneficial to apply separately, particularly if one applicant’s eligibility is uncertain or risky. Applying separately can sometimes be a strategic choice to avoid delays or refusals.

What are the Requirements of British Citizenship by Naturalisation

To be eligible for British Citizenship by Naturalisation under the British Nationality Act 1981, each applicant must:

• Be over 18 at the date of application.
• Have been a resident in the UK for 5 years, or 3 years if married to a British Citizen
• Have not been absent from the UK for more than 450 days during the 5 years before applying, or 270 days during the 3 years before applying if married to a British Citizen.
• Have not been absent from the UK for more than 90 days during the 12 months leading up to the application.
• Prove your knowledge of English, Welsh, or Scottish Gaelic.
• Have sufficient knowledge of Life in the UK by passing the Life in the UK test.
• Illustrate good character, meaning that you have not broken any UK laws.
• Be of sound mind.
• Be free from Immigration time restrictions for at least 12 months, meaning you have held Indefinite Leave to Remain or Settled Status for 12 months before applying unless married to a British Citizen, in which case the 12-month period does not apply.
• Intend to make the UK your permanent home for the foreseeable future.

How can we help?

For professional advice or assistance with your application for British Citizenship, contact our team on 0208 757 5751 or use our contact form. 

Frequently asked questions