Apply for citizenship if you have indefinite leave to remain or 'settled status'
After you get your certificate
You must send your biometric residence permit (BRP) back to the Home Office within 5 working days of getting your certificate of British citizenship. You must send it back even though it has expired.
Cut your BRP into 4 pieces and put it in a windowless envelope.
Include a note saying you’re returning your permit because you’ve become a citizen. Include your name, date of birth and the document number (found on the front of the card) in the note.
Naturalisation BRP Returns
PO Box 195
Bristol
BS20 1BT
You’ll be fined up to £1,000 if you do not return your permit within 5 working days.
Travelling to and from the UK
Once you have a British passport you can use this 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 BRP or certificate of British citizenship.
If you’re a dual citizen
If you’re a dual citizen, you may be able to travel to the UK using:
- an expired UK passport
- a passport of your other nationality
- a national identity card
Find out more about travelling to the UK if you are dual citizen.