Apply for citizenship if you were born in the UK
After you've applied
You’ll usually get a decision within 6 months - some applications can take longer.
It may take longer than the usual 6 months to get a decision because of coronavirus (COVID-19). This will not affect the decision.
You’ll be told if you need to provide more information to help with your application.
If your circumstances change
You should contact UK Visas and Immigration (part of the Home Office) if your situation changes during your application (for example, you move house, get married or are arrested).
Nationality contact centre
nationalityenquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk
You might be asked to attend an interview where you’ll need to speak without an interpreter.
Attending a citizenship ceremony
You’ll need to attend a citizenship ceremony if your application is successful and you’re 18 years old or over.
Travelling to and from the UK
You can apply for a British passport if your application is successful.
Apply for a:
- child’s passport if you’re under 16
- adult passport if you’re 16 or over
Once you have a British passport you must use it to enter the UK.
If you do not want a British passport you can apply for a certificate of entitlement instead.
You cannot enter the UK using your certificate of British citizenship.