British citizenship is a highly sought-after goal for many people around the world. In this post we discuss the numerous benefits of British Citizenship, making it an attractive option for those looking to secure a stable and prosperous future.
The right to live permanently in the United Kingdom
As a British citizen, you have the right to live permanently in the UK. You can freely move to the UK, buy property, work, open a bank account, and marry.
No travel restrictions
British citizens face no restrictions on how much time they can spend outside the UK. This is a significant advantage over those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), who cannot be outside the UK for more than two continuous years.
No work restrictions
UK Citizens are free to work without a work permit and similar restrictions. Citizens can also access government unemployment benefits and job search services.
Free medical care to British Citizens
The National Health Service (NHS) provides all UK citizens with free healthcare and treatment, which is one of the largest healthcare systems in Europe.
Right to vote
British citizens have full civic rights, including voting in parliamentary, local, or European elections. This allows you to participate in the governance of the country.
A stable society and economy
The UK boasts a strong and reliable currency, the Pound, and a resilient economy. The UK government is stable, and laws protect against discrimination and harassment.
Easy entry to the UK
With British citizenship, you can apply for a UK passport and use ePassport gates at most UK airports, bypassing immigration controls.
Visa-free travel
With British citizenship, you gain the freedom to travel within the British Commonwealth, including countries like Australia, Canada, Malaysia, South Africa, and New Zealand, without needing a visa. Additionally, there are many countries outside the Commonwealth where you can travel with a UK passport.
Standing for public office
Most British citizens aged 18 or over can stand for public office, with some exceptions, such as members of the armed forces and civil servants.
Education
British citizens pay significantly less for higher education in the UK. After three years of residency, students can avoid higher international rates and access UK student loans.
Diplomatic Offices worldwide
There are 280 British embassies and consulates in over 170 countries. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) supports UK citizens abroad, promoting national security and prosperity.
Dual Citizenship
The UK allows dual citizenship with more than 40 countries, including the United States. However, dual nationality can have drawbacks, such as double taxation and limited consular help in certain situations. For example, if you hold both British and US citizenship, you cannot get diplomatic help from the UK when you’re in the USA.
Bear in mind that if you apply for British citizenship you may need to give up your current nationality and passport. Countries such as India do not permit dual citizenship and require you to revoke Indian nationality upon acquiring British Citizenship.
How Can We Help
Nationality law is a complex area. Our experienced team can assist you in acquiring British Citizenship if you have been residing in the UK or are married to a British Citizen. Call us if you wish to discuss your application on 0208 757 5751 or use our contact form.
Frequently asked questions
Usually, you can apply for British Citizenship after lawfully residing in the UK for 3 or 6 years, depending on your circumstances.
Unfortunately, you do not automatically become British when you marry a UK citizen. You need to apply for naturalisation based on your marriage. If your children are born in the UK, they’ll automatically be British citizens if you have indefinite leave to remain, settled status or permanent residence when they’re born – you don’t need to be a British citizen.
The Home Office can take up to 6 months to give a decision. A well-prepared application is usually granted in 2 months.
