Becoming a British citizen is one of the most significant milestones in an immigration journey. Our citizenship solicitors in Bolton provide expert guidance on all routes to British nationality, from naturalisation and registration to dual nationality issues.
Routes to British Citizenship
Naturalisation
The main route to British citizenship for most adults. To be eligible you must:
- Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or a right of abode
- Have lived in the UK for at least 5 years before applying (or 3 years if married to a British citizen)
- Not have been absent from the UK for more than 450 days in the 5-year period (270 days in the 12 months before applying)
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
- Meet English language requirements (B1 CEFR)
- Be of good character
Registration
Certain individuals have a legal right to be registered as British citizens, including children born in the UK to non-British parents, children of British fathers, historic registrations under the British Nationality Act 1981, and adults with historical citizenship entitlements that were wrongly denied.
Citizenship by Descent
Children born abroad to a British parent may acquire British citizenship by descent, subject to certain generational limits.
The Naturalisation Application Process
Naturalisation applications are made on form AN and submitted to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Processing currently takes around 6 months. Successful applicants are invited to attend a citizenship ceremony where they take an oath or affirmation of allegiance.
Dual Nationality
The UK permits dual nationality, meaning you can become a British citizen without necessarily giving up your existing citizenship. However, your other country of nationality may not permit dual citizenship — our solicitors can advise you on this.
Children’s Citizenship
Children may be registered as British citizens in a variety of circumstances. Our solicitors have extensive experience with child registration applications, including complex cases involving discretionary registration under section 3(1) of the British Nationality Act 1981.
Speak to a Bolton Immigration Solicitor Today
Contact our specialist team for expert advice on your specific situation. We offer clear, fixed-fee services and a free initial consultation.
Related Services
Your path to British citizenship typically begins with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). If you are an EU citizen, settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme is an equivalent qualifying status. If your citizenship application is refused, our immigration appeals team can advise on your options. You can also read answers to common questions on our immigration FAQ page or find out about the areas we serve across Greater Manchester.
