Apply for citizenship if you have British nationality
You've lived in the UK or worked as a Crown servant
You may be able to apply if you hold any form of British nationality and either:
- you’ve lived in the UK for at least 5 years - and spent no more than 450 days abroad during that time, and no more than 90 days abroad in the last 12 months
- you’ve worked as a Crown servant at any time (for example in the diplomatic service, overseas civil service or armed forces)
How much it costs
| Application | Fee |
|---|---|
| Each adult | £1,481 (including citizenship ceremony fee) |
| Each child | £1,214 |
| If child turns 18 during application process | £130 extra for each child (for citizenship ceremony) |
If you send the wrong fee your application will not be processed and you’ll have to apply again.
You may be able to apply for a fee waiver if you’re under 18 and cannot afford to pay the fee.
How to apply
Read the guidance to check if you can apply.
It may take longer than the usual 6 months to get a decision because of coronavirus (COVID-19). You’ll get extra time to provide your fingerprints, photo and additional information, and to book a citizenship ceremony. This will not affect the decision.
Fill in the form online. You’ll usually be able to keep your documents while your application is being processed.
If you live in the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or a British overseas territory, you have to apply in person or apply by post instead. Check which you can do with your governor’s office.
If you live elsewhere, you can apply by post. This will take much longer than applying online because of coronavirus. Avoid applying by post, especially if you need your documents back by a specific date.
Biometric information
You must also have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken. You’ll be told how to do this after you apply.
Get help to apply online
You can get help with completing the online form if you:
- do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device
- do not have internet access
You can only use this service if you’re applying in the UK.
You cannot get immigration advice through this service.