Spouses of UK citizens have the opportunity to apply for citizenship more quickly than most other applicants, as the Immigration Rules offer a unique, expedited route.
Usually, applicants must live and be resident in the UK for five years before applying for British citizenship. However, if you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, you can apply after just three years of residence.
To qualify, you must also hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settled Status. This faster route allows spouses to naturalise sooner and secure the full rights and privileges of British citizenship.
Before submitting your application, you must meet the following criteria:
⦁ Residency: At least three years of continuous residence in the UK as a spouse of a British citizen. You must also prove that you were physically present in the UK exactly three years before the Home Office receives your application.
⦁ ILR/Settled Status: You must hold ILR or Settled Status at the time of application.
⦁ Good Character: A clean criminal record, no repeat offences, responsible financial conduct, and no breaches of immigration law.
⦁ English Language & Life in the UK Test: Provide evidence of English language proficiency and pass the Life in the UK Test, unless this requirement has already been met in a previous application or you are a national of a majority English-speaking country.
⦁ Absences from the UK: You should not have spent more than 270 days outside the UK in the three years before applying, or more than 90 days outside the UK in the 12 months before applying. If your absences exceed these limits, there may be circumstances where discretion can be applied, so please contact us if you believe this may be relevant to your situation.
You may be exempt from the residency requirements if your spouse is working abroad for the UK government or for an organisation closely linked to the government.
Timing is crucial. Applying too early can result in refusal. Our team at Migrate helps you plan the right moment to apply, giving your application the best chance of success.
Navigating the path to British citizenship can be complex. We assist spouses of UK citizens in the following ways:
⦁ Ensure they meets the requirements
⦁ Help gather the correct documents and evidence
⦁ Prepare and submit the application correct application
⦁ Book their biometric appointments at an appropriate time and location and upload all the supporting documents ahead of their appointment.
With our expertise, you can feel confident that your application is in safe hands and your journey to British citizenship is fully supported.