British Citizenship for Adults and Children

There are several ways to become a British citizen. The application process for naturalisation or British citizenship may initially seem straightforward; however, British nationality laws and understanding the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) 'good character' requirement can be complex.



Whether you are seeking to register your child as a British citizen or looking to apply for naturalisation, KLR Solicitors will be happy to assist you.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be 18 or over
• Have held Indefinite Leave to Remain or, if you are an EU/EEA national, Settled Status for 12 months
• Have passed the Life in the UK test
• Meet the English language requirements
• Plan to live permanently in the UK
• Show you have not had excessive absences from the country during the qualifying period
• Be of good character

The government guidance on the ‘good character’ requirement states:

“To be of good character you should have shown respect for the rights and freedoms of the UK, observe its laws and fulfilled your duties and obligations as a resident of the UK. Checks will be carried out to ensure that the information you give is correct."

It is often feared that having a criminal record will negatively affect one's application for naturalisation; however, this is not necessarily true. Having a criminal record does not automatically mean that your British citizenship application will be refused; however, you will need to seek legal advice. Our immigration lawyers can provide you with information on how your criminal record may affect your application and the best way to proceed.

If your child was born in the UK and you or their other parent is a British citizen or has Indefinite Leave to Remain or Settled Status, then they will automatically acquire citizenship. If your child was not born in the UK but you or their other parent is a British citizen, they will automatically be a British citizen themselves by descent.



British citizenship by descent applies when an individual is born outside the UK and one or both parents are British.

For a consultation regarding your British Citizenship application or refusal

please call us on 0208 300 6666 or fill in the form below.