Personal Immigration Service
We offer a range of services suited to your personal immigration situation, including preparing and submitting visa applications, immigration reviews or representing you in your appeal or challenge of a refusal decision.
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British Citizenship
Information on becoming a British citizen, including eligibility criteria, application routes, and how the process works.
Advice we specialise in
British Citizenship by naturalisation
Naturalisation as a British citizen, including residency requirements, eligibility criteria, and key application steps.
British citizenship by registration
Eligibility and requirements for British citizenship by registration, including entitlement-based routes and applications for children.
Should I become British?
Consider whether becoming a British citizen is right for you, including the benefits, rights, and key factors to weigh before applying.
What exactly is British citizenship?
British citizenship gives you the Right of Abode, which is the right to live and work in the UK permanently, without any immigration restrictions.
Who is automatically a British citizen?
There are several ways someone can automatically become a British citizen, including:
By birth: A child born in the UK to a parent who is a British citizen or settled in the UK at the date of the birth of the child, is automatically a British citizen by birth.
By descent: A person born outside the UK to a parent who is a British citizen otherwise than by descent (for example, by being born in the UK, or having a parent who was born in the UK) may automatically be a British citizen by descent.
By adoption: A child adopted by a British citizen automatically becomes a British citizen, providing the adoption has followed specific procedures.
By registration: In certain circumstances, individuals can apply to register as a British citizen. For example, a person who has lived in the UK for a certain period of time or has a parent who has become a British citizen may be eligible for registration.
It's important to note that the rules regarding British citizenship can be complex and may depend on individual circumstances. If you have any questions or concerns about your own citizenship status, book an online consultation with us.
How does someone get British citizenship?
There are different ways to get British citizenship, but the most common routes are:
British Naturalisation: This is the process for adults (over the age of 18) by which non-British nationals who meet certain eligibility requirements can apply to become British citizens.
British Registration: Registration is the citizenship application process usually for those under the age of 18. However there are exceptions where adults may apply, depending on route and if certain criteria are met. Individuals who do not qualify for naturalisation may be eligible for registration as a British citizen.
There are also several additional routes available to apply for British citizenship, catering to different situations:
- Children of British citizens have their own eligibility criteria and avenues for acquiring British citizenship.
- British citizenship by descent is another route to consider, which allows individuals with a grandparent who was born in the UK.
- British ancestry to apply for citizenship based on their familial ties.
- British Overseas Territories citizens can explore specific pathways to obtain British citizenship.
The eligibility requirements for each route to British citizenship can vary and can be complex. Before applying for British citizenship, speak to us to make sure you have a clear understanding of the process.
We’re here to help you
When it comes to obtaining reliable legal advice, Seraphus is your dedicated source of expert guidance.
We specialise in providing personalised support to help you navigate the complexities of the application process, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Contact us today using the contact us form.
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Application Checks
Find out moreNeed help checking an immigration application? We’ll make sure it’s thoroughly reviewed, and you are provided written feedback so you can perfect your application.
£750 + VAT 5-10 working days
Video Consultation
Find out moreGet a one-off assessment of your situation and receive advice on next steps.
£199 + VAT 30 min
British Citizenship FAQs
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How long does the British citizenship application process take?
The Home Office says that the typical British citizenship timeline is around six months from the date of biometrics being provided to receive a decision. But processing times do vary. Since July 2026, you can pay for a priority service for a decision within 30 working days, but this timeframe is not a guarantee.
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What happens if my application for British citizenship is refused?
If your application for British citizenship is refused, you may have the right to apply for a reconsideration of the decision or apply again. You should speak to us for guidance on how to challenge your refusal.
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Can I lose my British citizenship once I have it?
A person can be deprived of their British citizenship in certain situations.
Some of the main reasons for depriving a person’s citizenship include where the Home Office decides that deprivation of that person’s citizenship is conductive to the public good. This can include cases linked to serious organised crime, terrorism, or threats to national security. This power has been used increasingly more by the Home Secretary over the years.Another ground is if someone has gained British citizenship through fraud, false representations or hiding information relevant to the case. This includes, for example using a marriage as the basis of a citizenship application which is found to be false. Detailed information can be found on gov.uk. Deprivation of citizenship is complex, and you should seek legal advice if you need assistance.
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Can I travel outside the UK while my British citizenship application is being processed?
You can submit a British citizenship application and travel outside the UK while your application is pending. However, you will need to attend in-person appointments in the UK, including your biometric appointment and your citizenship ceremony.
You should not plan to spend long periods outside the UK because one of the requirements for British citizenship is a future intention to make the UK your main home and stay in the UK (this doesn’t apply if you are married to a British citizen).
Our customers rate us highly on Trustpilot
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"The process from consultation to (successful) completion has been personable, attentive and thorough. Would recommend Seraphus to anyone looking for a trustworthy legal agent to pursue British Citizenship status."
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I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. They supported me throughout my entire immigration journey – from my very first visa application all the way to British citizenship.Every step of the process was handled professionally, clearly, and efficiently. They were always responsive, patient with my questions, and made what could have been a very stressful experience feel manageable and well organised.Thanks to their expertise and attention to detail, all of my applications were approved successfully. I’m incredibly grateful for their guidance and support over the years.Highly recommended to anyone needing immigration assistance.
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"I requested their assistance with my British Citizenship application. The process took about 5 months from my initial contact to the application being submitted, during which a number of case workers assisted me with this. All were very professional and knowledgably in this field, providing me with good legal advice on how to proceed with my application.
I recommend their service to those whose cases aren't straightforward or who are nervous about applying on their own."
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