How Long Does Naturalisation Take From Start to Finish?
Many people make the mistake of making a UK passport application and a British Naturalisation application synonymous with each other, however they are two separate application processes.
This article explains the pathway from becoming British by a naturalisation application, the citizenship ceremony and the application for a first British passport.
Stage 1: Submitting Your Naturalisation Application
The Application Process
- The application forms for British nationality are completed online. For most adults applying to naturalise as British, they will use form AN.
- The application form requires personal information as it relates to the eligibility criteria of the British Nationality Act 1981, regarding time spent outside the UK. their character, English language level, as well as providing details of two referees.
- Application fee: £1,709 per applicant.
- Once submitted online, each applicant will need to attend a biometric enrolment appointment at a local UKVCAS centre.
- Ahead of this appointment, supporting documents are uploaded and submitted.
Home Office Processing Times
- Standard processing: approximately 6 months from date of application.
- NEW Priority service: £500 additional fee, decision within 30 working days.
- NEW Super priority: limited availability, decision within 5 working days.
- Delays are possible if additional checks or further evidence required.
Stage 2: The Citizenship Ceremony
Receiving Your Invitation
- After approval, your local council sends a ceremony invitation.
- You must attend a ceremony within 3 months of the invitation date.
- Failure to attend within 3 months may result in your application being withdrawn.
What Happens at the Ceremony
- Oath or affirmation of allegiance to the Crown.
- Pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom.
- Receive your Certificate of Naturalisation.
- Ceremonies are typically 30–45 minutes, held at council offices or registry offices.
- Private ceremonies available for an additional fee in some councils.
Ceremony Timeline
- Invitation typically arrives 2–4 weeks after approval decision.
- Ceremony usually booked within 2–6 weeks of invitation.
- Some councils have longer waiting times, so book as early as possible.
Stage 3: Applying for Your British Passport
British Passport Application
- Apply online (treated as a first adult passport application).
- Submit your Certificate of Naturalisation as part of the application.
- Passport photos: digital photos uploaded online or physical photos posted.
- Fee: currently £82.50 (online) or £93 (paper form).
Processing Time
- Standard processing: up to 10 weeks.
- Most applications completed within 6–8 weeks.
- Fast Track (1 week): available at an additional cost to collect from a passport office.
- Online Track service available (£3.50) to check passport manufacturing progress.
Common Delays and How to Avoid Them
- Incomplete applications or missing documents: Check requirements carefully before submitting.
- Additional security checks.
- Failure to attend biometrics appointment promptly.
- Council ceremony backlogs: book immediately upon receiving invitation
- Passport application errors — ensure photos meet requirements and name matches certificate exactly
Ready to start your British citizenship journey?
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Read more:
British Nationality Applications
What happens if your British Citizenship application is refused?
British Citizenship: Understanding Absence Rules
British Citizenship Fees: Full Cost Breakdown
Dual Nationality Rules: Can I hold Two Passports?
Prepare for the Life in the UK Test