Are you a skilled worker in the UK looking to take the final step towards securing British citizenship? If you entered the UK under a Skilled Worker visa, you’re already on a clear route to naturalisation. The journey begins with five years of continuous lawful residence in the UK while employed by a Home Office-licensed sponsor. After fulfilling this initial period, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Once you have held ILR for 12 months, you become eligible to apply for British citizenship through naturalisation. Instructing our Leading London Immigration Law Firm ensures that every detail is meticulously handled by professionals who understand the system inside and out.
When Can You Apply for Naturalisation?
To apply for British citizenship, you must have held Indefinite Leave to Remain for at least 12 months. Most Skilled Workers meet the ILR requirement after five years of continuous residency under the Skilled Worker visa route.
Our immigration solicitors can conduct a comprehensive eligibility assessment and help you calculate your qualifying period, ensuring your application is submitted at the correct time to avoid rejection or unnecessary delays.
Do I need to Meet the English Language Requirement?
As part of your successful ILR application, you would have already demonstrated proficiency in English at B1 level (as set out by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Fortunately, this same certification satisfies the language requirement for naturalisation, meaning no additional English tests are necessary.
It is worth noting that proposed Immigration White Paper reforms may raise the language threshold in future, making now an opportune time to apply. Our team stays ahead of all policy changes and will advise you, accordingly, helping you make a well-timed and compliant submission.
Do I Require a Life in the UK Test?
Much like the English language requirement, the Life in the UK Test is a one-time obligation. If you passed this test as part of your ILR application, you are not required to sit it again for your naturalisation application. The certificate remains valid indefinitely.
Clients of our Leading London Immigration Law Firm benefit from strategic documentation checks, ensuring all necessary evidence, including prior test certificates — is included to support the naturalisation process.
What About Good Character Requirement and My Criminal History?
Applicants must be of “good character” to become British citizens, as set out in the British Nationality Act 1981. This encompasses adherence to UK laws and respect for societal norms and values.
You are required to disclose:
- All criminal convictions (UK and overseas)
- Non-custodial sentences, such as suspended sentences
- Fines, cautions, reprimands, and warnings
- Community sentences, civil judgments, and penalty notices
- Hospital orders or restriction orders
Failure to declare even seemingly minor offences could jeopardise your application. Our legal experts carry out detailed background assessments and advise on how to present your history in a way that aligns with Home Office expectations.
Do I Need Referees for this Application ?
Yes, two referees must endorse your naturalisation application:
- One must be a British citizen, either over the age of 25 or a professional.
- The second may be of any nationality but must be a professional person, such as a civil servant, minister of religion, or accountant (excluding your legal representative for this application).
Both referees must have known you personally for a minimum of three years. Our firm assists in confirming referee eligibility and prepares them for their responsibilities, ensuring compliance with the Home Office’s strict criteria.
Absence from the UK: What’s Permissible?
Absences from the UK can affect your eligibility. To qualify for naturalisation, you must not have:
- Been absent from the UK for more than 450 days during the five-year qualifying period
- Been outside the UK for more than 90 days in the 12 months immediately prior to your application
Our team will carry out a meticulous analysis of your travel history, ensuring your absence record is accurately disclosed and falls within the permitted thresholds. If you are close to the limits, we can advise on the best strategy, including when to delay submission for optimal eligibility.
Biometric Enrolment Process
As part of the naturalisation application, all applicants must enrol their biometric data (fingerprints and photograph). The Home Office may be able to reuse biometrics from a previous visa or ILR application; however, attendance at an appointment may still be required.
Our solicitors manage the biometric booking process, guide you through documentation preparation, and ensure you don’t miss key deadlines, such as the standard 45-day window to provide your biometrics.
Can You Travel While the Application is Processing?
Yes, you can travel after submitting your naturalisation application, provided:
- You retain your original passport
- You include a certified copy of your passport in the application
- You can prove your immigration status upon re-entry
- You return in time to attend your biometric appointment and citizenship ceremony
Travel planning during this time must be handled with care. Our Leading London Immigration Law Firm provides personalised advice to ensure your mobility does not interfere with legal requirements or appointment schedules.
Why Instruct Our Leading London Immigration Law Firm?
Choosing the right legal support can be the difference between success and refusal. Our team has an outstanding track record of securing British citizenship through naturalisation for Skilled Workers. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Tailored legal advice: We don’t use templates — every application is built around your unique circumstances.
- Detailed documentation checks: Prevent costly errors or omissions that lead to refusals.
- Deadline management: Never miss a critical step, from biometric enrolment to citizenship ceremonies.
- Policy insight: Stay ahead of changing immigration rules and avoid common pitfalls.
- Transparent fees: We offer clear pricing with no hidden charges.
Ready to Become a British Citizen?
Don’t leave your future to chance. With the expert guidance of our Leading London Immigration Law Firm, you’ll benefit from comprehensive legal support from start to finish. Whether you’re just reaching your five-year Skilled Worker milestone or preparing to submit your naturalisation application today, we are here to help.
Contact us now to book your consultation and begin your journey towards British citizenship with complete confidence.