Apply for citizenship if you're stateless

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After you’ve applied

You’ll get a letter confirming your application. It can take up to 4 weeks.

Biometric information

You must also provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo). You’ll get a letter explaining how.

When you’ll get a decision

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 get a letter if you need to give 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.

Attending a citizenship ceremony

You’ll need to attend a citizenship ceremony if your application is successful.

Travelling to and from the UK

Once you have a British passport you must 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 certificate of British citizenship.