Becoming a British citizen is a dream for many people who have settled in the UK. It offers a range of benefits, including the right to vote, access to certain public services, and the ability to live and work in the UK indefinitely. However, obtaining British citizenship comes with a cost, and it is essential to understand the fees involved in the process. In this article, we will discuss the cost of British citizenship in 2023, including the fees for the application and other associated costs.
Application Fee
The application fee is the main cost associated with applying for British citizenship. As of 2023, the standard application fee for adults is £1,330. This fee applies to those who are over 18 years old and are applying for naturalisation or registration as a British citizen. For children under 18 years old, the application fee is £1,012.
Biometric Residence Permit Fee
As part of the application process, applicants must provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph. To do this, they must obtain a biometric residence permit (BRP). The fee for a BRP is £19.20 per person.
English Language Test
Applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of the English language by passing an approved English language test. The cost of the test varies depending on the test centre and the location. On average, the cost of the test is around £150.
Life in the UK Test
Another requirement for British citizenship is passing the Life in the UK test. This test assesses an applicant’s knowledge of British history, culture, and values. The cost of the test is £50.
Legal Fees
Many applicants choose to hire a solicitor to help them with their application. The cost of legal fees can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the solicitor’s fees. On average, legal fees for a British citizenship application can range from £1,000 to £3,000.
Travel Costs
Applicants may also incur travel costs when attending appointments, such as the English language test and Life in the UK test. The cost of travel will depend on the distance travelled and the mode of transport.
Other Costs
There may be other costs associated with the British citizenship application process, such as obtaining supporting documents, photocopying, and postage fees. These costs can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and the requirements of their application.
Obtaining British citizenship comes with a cost, and it is important to understand the fees involved in the process. The application fee is the main cost, with additional costs for the biometric residence permit, English language test, Life in the UK test, legal fees, travel costs, and other expenses. The total cost of a British citizenship application can range from £1,500 to £4,000, depending on the individual’s circumstances. By understanding the costs involved and seeking professional advice, individuals can take the necessary steps to achieve British citizenship.
