Give up (renounce) British citizenship or nationality
Resume your British nationality
In some cases it’s possible to resume your British nationality after renouncing it.
Read the guidance to check if you can apply.
It is taking longer than usual to process applications because of coronavirus (COVID-19). This will not affect the decision. You’ll get extra time to provide your fingerprints, photo and additional information, and to book a citizenship ceremony.
How to apply
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 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.
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.
Fee
Pay the current fee for registration.
Your fee will not be refunded if your application is refused.
Supporting documents
You’ll need to provide:
- your copy of your declaration of renunciation (either form RN1 or R6)
- your passport, or certificate of naturalisation or registration for your current citizenship or nationality
- an official letter or statement from the country you’re currently a citizen or national of saying that if you had not given up your British citizenship you’d have lost or failed to get your current citizenship or nationality
If you gave up United Kingdom and Colonies citizenship you’ll also need to provide:
- the birth, naturalisation or registration certificate of the person you have the connection to the UK with, and evidence of your relationship to that person, for example a birth, marriage or civil partnership certificate
- evidence that you gave up citizenship because you believed you’d be deprived of your citizenship of a Commonwealth country unless you did so - this should be a separate letter explaining this plus any supporting documents
You may have to provide different documents if you originally gave up citizenship for a reason other than you’d have lost or failed to get citizenship of another country - read the guidance for details.
Providing biometric information and supporting documents
When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo).
You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents. You can:
- upload them into the online service
- have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment
You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.
If you’re applying from the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or a British overseas territory
You’ll be told how to provide your biometric information and supporting documents when you apply.