UK Citizenship for Indians

A comprehensive guide to understand the eligibility criteria, application process, and other essential details about obtaining UK citizenship for Indians.
Check Domestic Travel Cover!
Buy Now
3 min
03-June-2024

Becoming a UK citizen is a significant milestone for many Indians, offering a multitude of benefits including access to quality healthcare, education, and a higher standard of living. This guide provides an in-depth look at the process of obtaining UK citizenship for Indians, outlining the essential requirements, necessary documents, and steps involved in the application process. Whether you're seeking citizenship through naturalisation, family connections, or birth, understanding these aspects will help you navigate the journey smoothly.

Eligibility criteria for UK citizenship for Indians

To be eligible for UK citizenship, Indians must meet specific criteria. Here are the key eligibility requirements:

  • Permanent residence: You must hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK for at least 12 months.
  • Continuous residence: You should have lived in the UK for at least five years.
  • Absence limits: You must not have spent more than 450 days outside the UK during those five years, and not more than 90 days in the last 12 months.
  • Good character: You need to have a clean criminal record and no immigration violations.
  • English language proficiency: You must prove your knowledge of English by passing an approved English language test.
  • Life in the UK test: Passing the Life in the UK Test, which assesses your knowledge of British customs, traditions, and history, is mandatory.
  • Oath of Allegiance: Willingness to take the Oath of Allegiance to the UK.

Explore: UK tourist visa for Indians

What are the documents required for UK citizenship application?

Gathering the correct documents is crucial for a successful UK citizenship application. Here are the essential documents needed:

  • Application Form AN: The official form for naturalisation as a British citizen.
  • Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): A copy of your BRP as proof of ILR.
  • Proof of residence: Utility bills, bank statements, or tenancy agreements showing your continuous residence.
  • English language test certificate: Proof of passing an approved English language test.
  • Life in the UK test pass notification: Proof of passing the Life in the UK Test.
  • Tax records: HMRC records showing you’ve paid taxes in the UK.
  • Travel documents: Passports or travel documents covering the five-year qualifying period.
  • Employment records: Payslips or a letter from your employer confirming your employment status.

How to apply for UK citizenship for Indians?

The application process for UK citizenship involves several steps:

  • Prepare your application: Complete the Application Form AN and gather all required documents.
  • Submit your application: Apply online or by post, including all necessary documents and the application fee.
  • Biometric appointment: Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photo.
  • Attend the citizenship ceremony: If your application is approved, you’ll be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance and receive your certificate of British citizenship.

What is the processing fees for UK citizenship for Indians?

The cost of applying for UK citizenship as of 2024 is £1,330 (approx. Rs. 1.40 lakh). This fee includes the processing of your application and the biometric enrolment fee. It's advisable to check the latest fee structure on the UK government’s official website as fees are subject to change.

Also, read: Skilled worker UK visa

Requirements for UK citizenship for families

If you are applying for UK citizenship for your family, each family member must meet the eligibility criteria individually. This includes:

  • Spouses and partners: Must have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and meet the same residence and character requirements.
  • Children under 18: Can be included in your application but will need to meet certain conditions, such as having ILR and being in the UK at the time of application.
  • Dependents: Must also meet the residency and character requirements.

Citizenship by birth for children born in the UK

Children born in the UK to Indian parents may automatically acquire British citizenship if:

  • One parent is a British citizen: At the time of the child's birth.
  • One parent has ILR: At the time of the child's birth.
  • After birth: Children can be registered as British citizens if their parents obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after the child’s birth.

Common reasons for rejecting UK citizenship applications and tips to avoid them

Applications can be rejected for several reasons. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

  • Incomplete application: Ensure all forms are fully completed and signed.
  • Incorrect documents: Double-check that all required documents are included and valid.
  • Residency requirements: Verify that you meet the residency and absence limits.
  • Language and life in the UK test: Pass both the English language and Life in the UK tests.
  • Good character: Disclose any criminal history or immigration issues honestly.

Also, read: Reasons for UK visa refusal

Which are some of the countries that offer easy citizenship to Indians?

While UK citizenship is highly sought after, other countries that also offer relatively easier routes for Indians:

  • St. Kitts and Nevis: Citizenship by investment programs.
  • Dominica: Another country with citizenship by investment options.
  • Portugal: Offers a Golden Visa program leading to citizenship.
  • Canada: Known for its immigrant-friendly policies and relatively straightforward pathway to citizenship.
  • Australia: Offers several visa options that can lead to citizenship.

Conclusion

Obtaining UK citizenship for Indians can be a rewarding but complex process. By understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing the necessary documents, and following the correct application procedure, you can navigate this journey smoothly. The benefits of UK citizenship, including access to quality healthcare, education, and the right to live and work in the UK, make the effort worthwhile. Stay informed about the latest requirements, seek professional advice if needed, and embrace this journey with confidence. Your path to becoming a UK citizen is within reach.

Related articles
How to get PR in Australia How to get PR in Canada How to get PR in New Zealand

Frequently asked questions

Can Indians get UK citizenship?
Yes, Indians can obtain UK citizenship. The process involves first securing Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and then meeting the eligibility criteria for naturalisation. This includes requirements such as continuous residence, good character, passing an English language test, and the Life in the UK test. Once these conditions are satisfied, Indians can apply for UK citizenship through naturalisation.
How long does it take for Indians to get UK citizenship?
The entire process of obtaining UK citizenship can take several years. Initially, you must reside in the UK for at least five years to qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). After holding ILR for 12 months, you can apply for citizenship. The processing time for citizenship applications is typically around six months, but this can vary based on individual circumstances and the volume of applications.
Is it easy to get UK citizenship?
Obtaining UK citizenship is a detailed process that requires meeting specific criteria and adhering to legal requirements. While the process is structured and transparent, it demands careful preparation, including providing necessary documentation and passing required tests. Therefore, while it's not necessarily easy, it is certainly achievable with thorough preparation and understanding of the requirements.

Bajaj Finserv App for All Your Financial Needs and Goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Explore and apply for co-branded credit cards online.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-approved limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on No Cost EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

GET THE APP

Disclaimer

*T&C Apply - Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Future Generali Life Insurance Company Limited, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited, The New India Assurance Company Limited, Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited , Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited, Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limited and Care Health Insurance Company Limited under the IRDAI composite CA registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. Please refer insurer's website for Policy Wordings. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services. Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. Visitors are hereby informed that their information submitted on the website may also be shared with insurers. BFL is also a distributor of other third-party products from Assistance Services providers such as CPP Assistance Services Pvt. Ltd., Bajaj Finserv Health Ltd. etc. All product information such as premium, benefits, exclusions, sum insured, value added services, etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective insurance company or the respective Assistance service provider company.

Note – While we have made all efforts and taken utmost care in gathering precise information about the products, features, benefits, etc. However, BFL cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect damage/loss. We request our customers to conduct their research about these products and refer to the respective product’s sales brochures before concluding their sale.