For many long-term residents, becoming a UK citizen is the final step after years of visas, work permits, and settling into life in Britain. Citizenship brings long-term stability, a British passport, and the freedom to live without immigration restrictions. And in 2026, more residents with ILR or Settled Status are preparing to apply to become a UK citizen.

If you’re thinking about making that step, here’s a clear guide to what the process looks like — requirements, documents, timelines, tests, and what to expect once you submit your application.

What UK Citizenship Actually Means

UK citizenship gives you access to full rights in British society:

  • voting in elections (explained by the UK Electoral Commission),

  • unrestricted travel in and out of the UK,

  • eligibility for a British passport,

  • and long-term protection from changes in immigration policy.

For many migrants, it’s the moment they finally feel fully settled in the country.

Who Can Apply to Become a UK Citizen?

Most applicants fall under these three routes:

Naturalisation for Adults

This is the most common path. To apply to become a UK citizen through naturalisation, you usually need:

  • Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settled Status

  • A clear residency history

  • Passing the Life in the UK Test

  • English-language evidence

  • Meeting the good-character requirement defined by the UK Home Office

Full guidance appears on gov.uk’s citizenship overview.

Citizenship by Marriage

If you’re married to a British citizen, you can apply to become a UK citizen after three years of residence rather than five.

Citizenship for Children

Some children qualify automatically, while others may apply through registration. Rules depend on birth location, parental status, and residency.

If you’re unsure which category fits your situation, UKGIC can help you identify your correct route.

Key Eligibility Requirements in 2026

Residency Requirement

Applicants usually need five years of residence (or three if applying through marriage), with limited days spent outside the UK. Full rules are listed on the UK government residency guide.

Immigration Status

To apply to become a UK citizen, you must hold:

  • ILR, or

  • Settled Status (EU Settlement Scheme)

Life in the UK Test

A mandatory multiple-choice test covering British culture, history, and values. Booking and information appear on the Life in the UK Test page.

English Language Requirement

Applicants need an approved test or qualifying evidence. Details are provided on the English language for citizenship page.

Good Character

The Home Office checks immigration history, criminal records, and overall conduct. Full guidance appears in the good character policy.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply to Become a UK Citizen

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

You’ll need:

  • Passport(s)

  • ILR or Settled Status evidence

  • Life in the UK Test certificate

  • English-language proof

  • 5-year (or 3-year) travel history

  • Two referees

The official document list is shown on gov.uk’s application page.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Applications are submitted through the Home Office citizenship portal.

Step 3: Pay the Fee

Updated fees are listed on the Home Office nationality fees page.

Step 4: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

Most applicants provide fingerprints and a photo at a UKVCAS centre. Guidance appears under UKVCAS.

Step 5: Wait for the Decision

Processing times vary. The Home Office publishes general timelines on its decision time guidance.

Step 6: Attend the Citizenship Ceremony

If approved, you’ll be invited to attend a ceremony at your local council. Full details appear on the citizenship ceremony page.

This is where you take the Oath of Allegiance and become a UK citizen.

How Long It Takes

Most people wait several months after submitting their application. Delays are common when:

  • travel histories don’t add up

  • documents are missing

  • referees don’t meet requirements

  • the Home Office needs more information

Correct preparation speeds up the process considerably.

Costs in 2026

Citizenship fees change periodically. The latest figures are always published on the official fees table.

Common Mistakes When People Apply to Become a UK Citizen

The most frequent errors include:

  • incorrect travel dates

  • outdated English-language evidence

  • failing the Life in the UK Test and delaying retakes

  • misunderstanding the residency rule

  • using referees who don’t qualify

  • not disclosing minor past issues

  • forgetting to update your address with the Home Office

Most mistakes cause delays, not refusals — but they’re easily avoidable with proper guidance.

What Happens After Your Application?

Once approved, you’ll be invited to your citizenship ceremony. After taking the oath and receiving your certificate, you can apply for a British passport through His Majesty’s Passport Office.

It’s the moment most applicants say the entire journey finally feels complete.

FAQ

Do I need to be working to apply?

No — employment is not a requirement for citizenship.

What if I fail the Life in the UK Test?

You can retake it as many times as needed.

Can I apply to become a UK citizen if I’ve travelled a lot?

Possibly — but exceeding the allowed days outside the UK may impact eligibility.

Can UKGIC help me apply?

Yes — we help applicants check eligibility, prepare documents, and submit their applications smoothly.

Conclusion

If you’re preparing to apply to become a UK citizen in 2026, understanding the requirements and preparing your documents properly can make the process far easier than many expect. With ILR or Settled Status and the right steps in place, naturalisation is a clear and achievable path.

If you’d like personalised help reviewing your eligibility or documents, UKGIC is here to guide you.