Becoming a British citizen is a significant achievement. However, there are important post-approval steps to complete before you can fully exercise your rights as a British citizen. This guide outlines the steps you should take after your British citizenship application is granted.
Attend a Citizenship Ceremony
For individuals aged 18 or older, attending a citizenship ceremony is a mandatory step to finalize British citizenship. This formal event is organized by local councils and serves as the official acknowledgement of your new status.
You must wait for the Home Office invitation before booking your ceremony. You will be invited when your application for Citizenship is successful. Once invited, you have up to three months to schedule and attend the ceremony. During the ceremony, you will swear or affirm an oath of allegiance to the UK and pledge loyalty to its values. At the end of the ceremony, you will receive your certificate of Naturalisation and a welcome pack. Some councils also offer virtual ceremonies. In such cases, your certificate will be mailed to you after the ceremony.
Proper planning of the ceremony date is essential, especially if you intend to travel. Once recognized as a British citizen, you will no longer be able to use your BRP or previous immigration documents for re-entry into the UK.
The eVisa System: Replacing the BRP
The eVisa system is now replacing physical BRPs, offering a digital record of your immigration status. While this system modernizes the process, certain key actions are required after your citizenship is approved.
If you previously held a Biometric Residence Permit, the Home Office now advises that you safely destroy your BRP card. It is advisable to keep a digital record of your BRP card.
Once you are granted citizenship, you can rely on your British passport or certificate of entitlement to prove your status.
Applying for a British Passport
Obtaining a British passport is essential for international travel and re-entry into the UK, as the certificate of British citizenship cannot serve this purpose.
Applications can be made online or through paper forms available at select Post Offices offering the Passport Check and Send service, where staff can help take your digital photo and help you will the application online.
Processing times for a standard passport are currently up to 3 weeks, so early planning is advised.
Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode
For those who do not wish to hold a British passport, a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode can be an alternative. This certificate serves as proof of your right to live in the UK and is endorsed in your current passport.
It is important to note that you cannot apply for a certificate if you already hold a British passport. Additionally, when your passport expires, you will need to apply for a new certificate. Applications can be made both within and outside the UK, with fees of £550. Your application fee will not be refunded if your application is refused because you do not qualify for right of abode or you do not send in enough evidence to support your claim.
Traveling While Your Citizenship Application Is Pending
If your British citizenship application is under consideration, you are allowed to travel. However, there are specific points to keep in mind to ensure compliance with UK immigration rules.
You can retain your original passport for travel while submitting a copy as part of your application. However, you must maintain evidence of valid immigration status, such as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or an eVisa, to re-enter the UK. It is also important to monitor your correspondence during this period, as the Home Office may request additional information to process your application.
British Citizenship Applications for Children
The process for children applying to register as British citizens differs from that of adults. Children are not required to attend a citizenship ceremony. Citizenship is automatically granted once their certificate of registration is issued.
However, if a child travels abroad while their application is pending, they could become a British citizen while outside the UK. In such cases, they will need a British passport or a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode to return to the UK. Planning for these scenarios is crucial to avoid complications.
Contact Our Expert Team
Transitioning to British citizenship is an exciting milestone, but it comes with responsibilities and logistical considerations. At Whytecroft Ford, our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process of becoming a British citizen.
For tailored advice and professional support with your application for British citizenship, contact us at 0208 757 5751 or complete our contact form.
