Naturalisation is the most common way to become a British citizen — the final step after settling in the UK. If you hold indefinite leave to remain or settled status, this 2026 guide walks you through who qualifies, the exact requirements, what it costs, and how the application works from start to citizenship ceremony.
Who can apply?
To naturalise as a British citizen you must generally:
- be 18 or over and of sound mind;
- have indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or settled status — and, on the standard route, have held it for at least 12 months;
- have lived in the UK for 5 years (or 3 years if you’re married to or the civil partner of a British citizen — with no 12-month wait after settlement);
- meet the residence (absences) limits;
- pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English language requirement;
- be of good character.
Residence and absences
Across your qualifying period you must not have been outside the UK for more than 450 days over 5 years (or 270 days over 3 years), and no more than 90 days in the final 12 months before you apply. You also must have been in the UK exactly 5 (or 3) years before the date of application.
Life in the UK Test and English
You’ll need to have passed the Life in the UK Test and prove your English at CEFR level B1 (speaking and listening). Note: from 26 March 2027 the English requirement for citizenship is rising to B2, so apply under the current B1 standard if you can.
Good character
The Home Office assesses your good character — covering criminal records, immigration history, finances (tax, bankruptcy) and more. Since a February 2025 policy change, those who entered the UK irregularly (for example by small boat or concealed in a vehicle) normally face refusal, even years later. Declare everything honestly.
How much does it cost?
The adult naturalisation fee is £1,709, and the total including the mandatory citizenship ceremony fee is about £1,839. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of any English test and the Life in the UK Test.
How to apply — and what happens next
- Apply online on GOV.UK and pay the fee.
- Provide two referees (see our referee guide).
- Enrol your biometrics at a UKVCAS appointment.
- Wait for a decision — around 6 months (there’s no priority service).
- Attend a citizenship ceremony within 3 months of approval and receive your certificate.
Once you’re a citizen you can apply for a British passport. Not settled yet? Start with our ILR guide.
Frequently asked questions
What are the requirements for British citizenship by naturalisation?
Be 18 or over, have held ILR or settled status for 12 months, have lived in the UK 5 years (3 if married to a British citizen), pass the Life in the UK Test, meet English at B1, and be of good character.
How much does it cost to naturalise as British in 2026?
£1,709, or about £1,839 including the citizenship ceremony fee.
How long does British citizenship take?
Usually around 6 months from your biometrics appointment; there is no priority service.
How many days can I be absent from the UK?
No more than 450 days over 5 years (or 270 over 3 years), and no more than 90 days in the final 12 months before applying.
Do I need the Life in the UK Test and an English test?
Yes — you must pass the Life in the UK Test and meet English at B1 (rising to B2 for applications from 26 March 2027).
What happens after my application is approved?
You attend a citizenship ceremony within 3 months, receive your certificate, and can then apply for a British passport.
