Naturalisation by residence in the United Kingdom (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: Naturalisation as a British citizen needs five years of residence, English at level B1 or above and knowledge of life in the UK. Dual citizenship is allowed.

RuleWhat applies
Years of residence requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residence5 years [1]
Shortened residence periodsOrdinary naturalisation by residenceThree years for the spouse or civil partner of a British citizen (section 6(2)). [1]
Language level requiredOrdinary naturalisation by residenceB1 (CEFR) [2]
Integration or civic knowledge testOrdinary naturalisation by residenceYes [1]
Giving up previous nationalityOrdinary naturalisation by residenceNot required [3]

Notes

  • The applicant must have been in the UK at the start of the five years, with no more than 450 days absent in that period and no more than 90 days absent in the last 12 months. Settled status is also needed. Some changes to this schedule are marked as not yet in force.
  • No more than 270 days absent in the three years and no more than 90 days absent in the last 12 months. Settled status is also needed.
  • Some people do not need to prove their English, for example because of age or a long-term condition.
  • The law requires sufficient knowledge about life in the UK. The Life in the UK Test is the usual way to show it. People under 18 or aged 65 or over, and some people with a long-term condition, do not need to take it.
  • Applies to the United Kingdom as a whole. Other countries may have their own rules on dual nationality.

Sources

  1. legislation.gov.uk: British Nationality Act 1981, Schedule 1: Requirements for naturalisation (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. GOV.UK: Prove your knowledge of English for citizenship and settling (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. GOV.UK: Dual citizenship (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.