Permanent citizenship in the United Kingdom (UK) is a highly sought-after status for many individuals who reside in the country. With permanent citizenship, individuals have the right to remain in the UK without any time restrictions, work freely without needing a work visa, and access public funds and services. In this article, we will discuss the various ways to obtain permanent citizenship in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for permanent citizenship in the UK, an individual must meet certain criteria. These include:
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Residency requirements
An individual must have lived in the UK for a specific period of time before they can apply for permanent citizenship. The residency requirements vary depending on the type of visa the individual holds. For example, individuals with a Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa must have lived in the UK for at least five years before they can apply for permanent citizenship.
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English language proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of the English language by passing an approved English language test.
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Life in the UK test
Applicants must also pass a life in the UK test, which assesses their knowledge of British history, culture, and laws.
Ways to Obtain Permanent Citizenship
There are several ways to obtain permanent citizenship in the UK. These include:
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Through Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a permanent residency status that allows an individual to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions. To qualify for ILR, an individual must have lived in the UK for a set period of time, usually five years. They must also meet the eligibility criteria mentioned in section one, such as passing the English language test and life in the UK test. Once an individual obtains ILR, they can apply for permanent citizenship after one year.
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Through British Citizenship by Descent
British citizenship by descent is available to individuals who have a parent or grandparent who was born in the UK. This type of citizenship is obtained by descent and not through naturalization, which means that an individual does not need to meet the residency requirements. However, they must still pass the English language test and life in the UK test.
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Through Ancestry
Individuals with a grandparent who was born in the UK can apply for ancestry visa, which allows them to work and live in the UK for up to five years. After living in the UK for five years, they can apply for ILR and eventually permanent citizenship.
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Through Spouse or Partner
Individuals who are married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with ILR can apply for a spouse or partner visa. Once the individual has lived in the UK for five years on a spouse or partner visa, they can apply for ILR and then permanent citizenship.
Application Process
The application process for permanent citizenship in the UK varies depending on the type of visa an individual holds. However, the general steps are as follows:
- Complete the relevant application form – Applicants must complete the relevant application form for the type of visa they hold.
- Submit supporting documents – Applicants must submit supporting documents such as their passport, proof of residency, and evidence of passing the English language test and life in the UK test.
- Biometrics – Applicants must provide their biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph.
- Pay the application fee – Applicants must pay the application fee, which varies depending on the type of visa.
- Attend an interview – Applicants may be required to attend an interview to discuss their application.
Conclusion
Obtaining permanent citizenship in the UK is an attainable goal for many individuals who reside in the country. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the relevant application process, individuals can secure their right to live and work in the UK permanently.
