UK Home Office Release Statistics on British Citizenship Applications

Today, the Home Office published statistics showing the number of visa applications made for British citizenship since 2002, which have either been processed or are pending decision. The statistics show how there are an increasing number of applications being made by those who wish to make the UK their permanent home and wish to obtain a British passport.

Below, we will discuss these statistics and we will explain the services our expert legal immigration team in London can assist applicants in submitting a successful application for British citizenship.

Eligibility for British Citizenship

Those wishing to apply for British Citizenship, must have completed five years of lawful residence in the UK and must have held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for at least one year. They then may be able apply for naturalisation as a British Citizen.

Home Office Stats on British Citizenship Applications

The statistics have been distinguished into two categories – ‘Adults’ & ‘Children’. Children are considered to be aged less than 18 years old at the time of submitting the naturalisation application and adults are considered to be aged 18 years old and over at the time of submitting the visa application.

According to the statistics, in the last 5 years covering the period of January 2010 to June 2014:

  • 687,885 Adults have made visa applications to obtain British citizenship; and
  • 211160 Children have made visa applications to obtain British citizenship.

So the total number of applicants trying to obtain British citizenship in the UK during this period was 899,045. This begs the question – why do so many people want to settle in the UK? Immigration is a constant topic of conversation in politics and with the general elections coming up in May 2015 it is unlikely to stop any time soon.

The UK has become a desirable destination for students, entrepreneurs, investors and family members of those settled in the UK.  For instance, entrepreneur migrants qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if they create 10 jobs or turn over £5 million in a three year period. The same applies to overseas investors, if they invest £5 million they will be able to apply for ILR. In order to make an application for naturalisation you must have had Indefinite Leave to Remain for at least 12 months.

Our Expert Immigration Services for British Citizenship Applications

We can help with your naturalisation application and queries. Our expert team of lawyers can assist you with the preparation of your application and ensure that you are eligible under the relevant Immigration Rules. Our city of London Solicitors will have a detailed consultation with you in order to understand your immigration matter, as well as ensuring that you know what is involved in the visa application process.

Applicants who decide to instruct the immigration team at LexLaw will be provided with a detailed document list tailored to their circumstances, detailed legal representations and preparing the application on your behalf before submission to the Home Office. In order to qualify for British citizenship you must be:

  • Minimum age of 18;
  • Sound mind;
  • Intention of having your home in the UK;
  • Sufficient knowledge of English Language;
  • Sufficient knowledge of life in the UK;
  • Good character;
  • Residence requirements; and
  • References.

Want to make an Application for Naturalisation?

Our team of experienced and professionally qualified immigration solicitors and barristers will be able to guide you through the process of making a visa application to the UK step by step and limit the possibility of failure by complying with the strict letter of law.

Contact us so that we can review your case and provide you with an assessment.

Call Now Button search previous next tag category expand menu location phone mail time cart zoom edit close