Well, you could have been born to a British parent to be a British citizen, but since you did not we can still help you be one. So, just like everything else, there is an application you can fill to become a British citizen but obviously, you need to fulfill certain eligibility requirements to become one.
There is a complete naturalization process which has been stated quite clearly under the British Nationality Act OF 1981. Yes, rules are rules no matter what. There are 2 distinct sections of the constitution that describe the naturalization process. The two sections are:
- Section 6(1)
- Section 6(2)
Section 6(1) discusses the various parameters of applications for people who want to apply for British Citizenship but are not a spouse or partner of any British citizen.
Whereas, SECTION 6(2) discusses the various parameters for applications made by people who are in fact a spouse or partner of a British citizen.
To make this application the applicant has to be above the age of 18. They need to have good character and an intent to live in the UK permanently. However, there are certain other requirements that need to be fulfilled to make this application.
If you are making the application under Section 6(1), then to be eligible for citizenship you will have to have stayed in the UK in complete accordance with the law for a period of 3 years. In these 3 years, you should not have spent more than 270 days of 3 years, and 90 days in a year outside of the country. Also, you should have Indefinite Leave to Remain while making the application.
On the other hand, if you are making this application under Section 6(2), then to be eligible for citizenship you will have to have stayed in the country for 5 years. You should not have been out of the country for more than 450 days in this time. Again, you should have permanent residency or Indefinite Leave to Remain before applying.
On the off chance you do not fulfill this criterion, then you can ask for help from an immigration solicitor as to what steps you could take to be exempted from this rule. I know it doesn’t sound like something you can be exempted from but there is a real possibility that you can be exempted from this particular requirement if the State of secretary allows it to be overlooked. However, it happens only in very rare cases and the applicant should fulfill all other eligibility requirements of the naturalization process as described in the British Constitution.
One of the major requirements that are also a part of all visa applications as well as the good character requirement. This requirement has not been defined in the British constitution but is very understandable.
You wouldn’t allow a robber or murderer or just a generally bad person in your house, will you? Similarly, the British government takes care of their own country. The good character can be proved by showing that you have not broken any law, during your residence period in the UK. In case you have, please hire an immigration solicitor because without help approval of your citizenship has slim chances. The only exemption is provided if you were or are a child.
You would also need to meet the language requirements. This involves taking a test. Well, sure without knowing English what would you even do in the UK. The exemption is provided if you are from a native English-speaking nation, not of sound mind, or are below or above the age of 18 and 65 respectively.
For more detailed information on the subject visit https://www.gov.uk/.
