If you’re married to a British citizen, you might assume that citizenship comes automatically, but this is not the case.
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In order to become a British citizen through marriage, you must be on a specific visa route and then apply for indefinite leave to remain, after which you can naturalise as a British citizen by meeting specific requirements set out by the UK Home Office.
In this article, our expert immigration solicitor, Dr Bernard Andonian, walks you through everything you need to know about obtaining British Citizenship through marriage and how one can settle in the UK under this route.
Key Takeaways
- To qualify for British Citizenship through marriage, you must be married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen and hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status.
- You can apply for citizenship as soon as you receive ILR—no need to wait 12 months if applying through marriage.
- You must have lived in the UK for at least 3 years, with no more than 270 days outside the UK in that period and no more than 90 days in the last 12 months.
- You must meet the KoLL requirement: pass the Life in the UK test and show English language proficiency (unless exempt).
- Good character, sound mind, and full compliance with UK immigration rules are essential for approval.
- Application costs total £1,735, plus additional costs for biometric data, tests, or translations if needed.
- The process usually takes 3–6 months; you must attend a citizenship ceremony to finalise your status.
- Your application must include two referees, travel history, and supporting documents like your marriage certificate and partner’s proof of citizenship.
- Children may be eligible for citizenship depending on when and where they were born and your status at the time.
- You can apply for a British passport once naturalisation is complete, your certificate of citizenship replaces your BRP.
Can I Live in the UK if I Marry a British Citizen?
Yes, marrying a British citizen can allow you to live in the UK, but it does not automatically grant you British citizenship. To begin the process, you must apply for a spouse visa, civil partner visa or unmarried partner visa, which allows you to live and work in the UK for an initial period of two years and nine months. Your visa must then be extended, and after completing five years of continuous residence, you may become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR grants permanent residency status in the UK, and once you hold ILR, you can apply for British citizenship.
To obtain one of these visas, you must demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and not formed solely for immigration purposes. You must also satisfy financial requirements, prove your English language proficiency, and meet strict residency rules, such as limiting time spent outside the UK during the qualifying period. Each stage of the process is carefully assessed by the Home Office to ensure compliance with UK immigration laws.
Can I Get a British Passport If I Marry a British Citizen?
A British passport is not granted simply because you marry a British citizen. A passport can only be issued once you have become a British citizen yourself.
If you successfully naturalise as a British citizen (after meeting the residence, settlement, and other legal requirements outlined above) you can then apply for a British passport. The passport application is a separate administrative process handled by HM Passport Office and requires proof of your British citizenship.
In short, marriage can lead to British citizenship, and citizenship can lead to a British passport.
British Citizenship Through Marriage: When Can You Apply?
If you have achieved one of the UK family visas mentioned above, are already married to a British citizen and have been granted settled status in the United Kingdom, either through Indefinite Leave to Remain or the EU Settlement Scheme, you may then apply for British citizenship through the naturalisation process.
You will once again need to satisfy all other conditions set by the Home Office for naturalisation, including residence, character, and knowledge-based criteria.
Eligibility Conditions for British Citizenship by Marriage
Before you can apply for British citizenship through marriage, you must meet several strict requirements. These rules are designed to ensure that applicants have strong ties to the UK and are ready to take on the full responsibilities of being a British citizen.
Marriage or Civil Partnership to a British Citizen
To apply for citizenship by marriage, you must be at least 18 years old and legally married to or in a recognised civil partnership with someone who is already a British citizen. This relationship must be genuine and legally valid under UK law.
You’ll be asked to provide official proof, such as a marriage or civil partnership certificate, as part of your application. The UK Home Office expects your relationship to be ongoing and not just formed for immigration purposes.
Indefinite Leave to Remain or Settled Status
You must hold either indefinite leave to remain (ILR), indefinite leave to enter, or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme before you apply for citizenship. This confirms that you are exempt from immigration time limits and can remain in the UK without restrictions.
If you’re applying based on marriage, you do not have to wait 12 months after getting ILR. Once it’s granted, you can apply for British citizenship right away, as long as all other conditions are met.
Residence Requirement (3 Years)
You must have resided in the UK for a minimum of three years prior to applying. During that time, your total time abroad should not exceed 270 days, and you must not have spent more than 90 days outside the UK in the past twelve months. You must also demonstrate that you were present in the UK on the exact day three years before the Home Office received your application.
On top of that, your stay must have followed UK immigration rules the entire time, and you must be free from immigration restrictions when you apply. If your absences are close to the limit, take advice before applying.
The KoLL Requirement
If you are applying for British citizenship through marriage, you must meet what’s known as the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK (KoLL) requirement. This involves two parts: demonstrating your ability to speak and understand English, and demonstrating a basic understanding of British culture, laws, and values. This requirement applies to almost all applicants, and you must meet both elements unless you qualify for an exemption.
If you are 65 or older, or if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition that makes it impossible to meet the language or knowledge requirements, you will not need to complete them. However, you must provide medical evidence to confirm this.
Life in the UK Test
The Life in the UK Test checks how well you understand British life, including key topics like history, government, law, and everyday culture. It consists of 24 multiple-choice questions, and you must achieve a minimum score of 75% to pass. The test takes 45 minutes and must be completed at an official test centre. You can book it online and choose a location that’s convenient for you.
You can take the test at any time before submitting your application. If you’ve already passed the test, for example, when applying for ILR, you won’t need to take it again. If you’re under 18 or over 65, you’re automatically exempt.
There is a £50 fee each time you take the test, and you can retake it as often as needed. Official practice materials and mobile apps are available to help you prepare.
English Language Proficiency
Most applicants must also prove they can speak and understand English. You are exempt from this part if you are a national of a country where English is the main language (such as the USA, Canada, or Australia). However, you will still need to pass the Life in the UK test unless you qualify for a separate exemption.
If you’re not exempt, you must either:
- Hold a degree taught in English (UK or recognised equivalent), or
- Pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by the Home Office.
The SELT evaluates listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Popular test providers include IELTS, Pearson, Trinity College London, and LanguageCert. Remember that only results from approved test centres will be accepted with your application.
Good Character Requirement
Anyone applying for British citizenship by marriage must meet the Home Office’s good character standard. This means you need to show that you’ve respected UK law, upheld your responsibilities as a resident, and have no serious or recent criminal convictions. A prison sentence of over four years will usually result in an automatic refusal, and even non-custodial offences committed within the last three years can cause problems.
The Home Office also takes into account past immigration issues, such as overstaying a visa or entering the UK unlawfully, in its assessment. You will need to be open and honest in your application, as even minor issues can delay or impact the outcome.
Sound Mind Requirement
Applicants must be of sound mind and able to understand what is involved in applying for British citizenship. This means that the individual is aware of the obligations that come with being a British citizen.
If your spouse lacks the mental capacity to make decisions independently, it’s still possible to apply on their behalf, but extra steps are involved. You will need to explain the situation clearly and include medical proof of their condition, along with evidence that it is in their best interests to become a citizen.
In some cases, the Home Office may waive this requirement based on the evidence provided.
What Happens If Your Spouse Is Deceased?
If your sponsor partner has passed away before you’ve applied for citizenship, you cannot apply under the citizenship by marriage route. The application depends on your relationship with a living British citizen, so this route closes once they are no longer alive.
However, this does not mean you are without options. Depending on your immigration history and personal circumstances, you may still qualify for British citizenship through a different route, such as long-term residence or human rights grounds.
It’s important to speak with an immigration solicitor before making any decisions, as the right path forward will depend on factors like how long you’ve lived in the UK and your current visa or settlement status.
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Application Fee for British Citizenship Application
Applying for British citizenship by marriage involves several costs. The main Home Office fee for a naturalisation application is currently £1,605 per person. In addition, there is a mandatory £130 fee for the citizenship ceremony, bringing the total to £1,735.
There may also be additional expenses, depending on your situation. For example:
- Life in the UK test: £50
- English language test (if needed): around £150
- Biometric Fees: £19.20 to provide your biometric details
You should also factor in any costs for legal support, certified translations, or document copies if needed. These are not required, but many applicants choose professional help to avoid errors or delays.
How Long Does the Application Process Take?
Once you’ve submitted your application, the Home Office usually takes between 3 and 6 months to make a decision. Some cases are processed faster, especially if your documents are complete and there are no concerns.
However, applications can take longer if additional checks are needed or if there are missing details or delays in verifying your information. It’s a good idea to apply well in advance if you have future plans, such as travel, so that delays don’t affect your timeline.
The Role of British Citizenship Referees
You must include two referees with your British citizenship application who can verify your identity and support your application. These individuals will be asked to provide details about themselves and sign a formal declaration, which will become part of your application pack.
There are strict rules on who qualifies as a referee. Both must have known you personally for at least three years, but they cannot be a relative, your lawyer or immigration adviser, or anyone employed by the Home Office. They also must not have had a recent criminal conviction.
At least one referee must be a professional, such as a teacher, accountant, GP, or someone in another recognised occupation. This individual can be from any country. The second referee, however, must be a British citizen who is either at least 25 years old or holds a professional position.
British Citizenship by Marriage Application Process
Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you can start your application online using Form AN, which is the standard form for naturalisation. The form asks for detailed information about your personal history, immigration status, relationship with your British spouse, and time spent in the UK.
Take your time when completing the form. Be accurate with dates, especially around your immigration history, absences from the UK, and employment details. If anything is unclear or inconsistent, the Home Office may delay or refuse your application.
After submitting your form and paying the required fee, you will be asked to book a biometric appointment at a UKVCAS service point. At this appointment, your fingerprints and a digital photo will be taken. If you have previously been issued a biometric residence permit (BRP), you will need to include it with your application.
You will also need to upload or submit supporting documents, including your marriage or civil partnership certificate. The required documents are discussed in the section below.
After submission, most applicants receive a decision within 3 to 6 months, but some cases may take longer depending on complexity or document checks.
If your application is successful, you’ll be asked to attend a citizenship ceremony, where you’ll need to make an oath or affirmation of loyalty to the United Kingdom. This is a formal requirement, and failure to attend without a valid reason may result in your application being cancelled. You have 90 days to book and attend the ceremony.
After the ceremony, you’ll receive your certificate of naturalisation. You must return your old BRP to the Home Office within 5 working days, or you could face a £1,000 fine.
Supporting Documents Required
To support your application for British citizenship by marriage, you’ll need to gather a number of documents that prove your identity, immigration status, relationship, and time spent in the UK.
Here’s what you should prepare:
- Proof of immigration status: This includes your biometric residence permit (BRP), permanent residence card, or evidence of settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. It confirms that you hold indefinite leave to remain and are free from immigration time limits.
- Proof of meeting the KoLL requirement: Submit your Life in the UK test pass certificate and, where required, a valid English language qualification (e.g. SELT or proof of a degree taught in English).
- Identification documents: A valid passport is preferred, but you may also use a travel document or birth certificate if a passport isn’t available.
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate: This shows your legal relationship to a British citizen, which is a key part of this application route.
- Partner’s proof of British citizenship: This might include their British passport, naturalisation certificate, or registration certificate.
- Travel history and absence records: You must disclose all time spent outside the UK within the qualifying time frame. Provide your travel history, including dates, destinations, and reasons for trips abroad.
- Previous visa or residency documents: If you held other UK visas before getting ILR or settled status, include those documents to show your full immigration journey.
- Two completed referee declarations: Make sure your referees meet the eligibility criteria and that their forms are signed and dated properly.
- Any legal name change documents: If your current name doesn’t match your ID or marriage certificate, include evidence such as a deed poll or court order.
If your documents are not in English or Welsh, you’ll need to submit officially certified translations alongside them. It’s also recommended to keep digital and physical copies of everything you submit.
What Happens Next If Your Application Is Successful
You must attend a citizenship ceremony before your British citizenship can be finalised. The citizenship ceremony is a mandatory step, and you must arrange it through your local council within three months of getting your invitation.
During the ceremony, you’ll be required to make an oath or affirmation of allegiance and commit to upholding the UK’s values and freedoms. Once completed, you will be given your official naturalisation certificate.
Once naturalised, your biometric residence permit (BRP) becomes invalid; you can no longer use it to travel. Until you get a British passport, your citizenship certificate serves as proof of your status. If you don’t plan to apply for a passport, you can request a certificate of entitlement as an alternative way to show your right to enter the UK.
Applying for Your First British Passport
After your naturalisation is complete, you can apply for a British passport. This document acts as legal proof of your citizenship and replaces the need for any visa when travelling in and out of the UK.
To apply, you’ll need:
- Your certificate of naturalisation
- A suitable photo ID
- Proof of your identity and UK address
The standard adult passport lasts for 10 years and is accepted as a valid travel and identification document both in the UK and internationally.
Will My Children Get British Citizenship Too?
If your child was born in the UK and you’ve now become a British citizen or already held settled status at the time of their birth, they may automatically be a British citizen. If not, you may be able to register them as British, depending on your status at the time of their birth and other factors.
The rules can be complex, especially if your children were born outside the UK or before you were granted Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or citizenship. In such cases, it is best to seek legal advice to understand their eligibility and the most suitable course of action.
What Happens If Your Citizenship Application Is Refused?
If your application is denied, it can be disappointing, but you may still have options.
Unlike visa decisions, you don’t have a legal right of appeal under UK nationality law. However, you may be able to ask the Home Office to review the decision, particularly if you believe the refusal was based on a mistake or oversight.
You should carefully read the letter, as it will clarify the reason for the rejection. Common grounds for refusal include:
- Failure to meet the residence or good character requirements
- Missing or incorrect documents
- Breaches of UK immigration rules
- Being absent from the UK on key dates
In limited cases, the Home Office may reconsider an application if it was handled incorrectly. For example, if the wrong eligibility criteria were applied or necessary evidence was overlooked.
If you’re unsure about your next steps, it is strongly recommended to pursue professional advice. An immigration specialist can help you understand whether it’s worth requesting a review or when you might be eligible to apply again.
Case Example: Maria & James
Maria, a Filipino national, married James, a British citizen, in 2022. They planned to settle in the UK and applied for a spouse visa from outside the country.
Challenges:
James was self-employed, which meant extra financial evidence was needed to prove his income met the financial requirement, which was £18,000 (at that time).
Maria had no formal English qualifications and needed to pass an approved language test.
Their relationship had been long-distance, so they needed strong evidence to show it was genuine and ongoing.
How We Helped:
Our team helped James prepare the right financial documents, including his tax returns and accountant letters. We guided Maria through booking and passing her A1 English test. We also compiled evidence of their relationship, travel history, messages, photos, and shared plans.
Result:
The visa was approved in 10 weeks. Maria now lives in the UK with James and applied for further leave to remain in 2025. She is on the track for Indefinite Leave to Remain and, later, British citizenship.
Tips for a Successful Citizenship Application Through Marriage
Here are some tips to help you avoid delays and increase your chances of success:
- Check your eligibility carefully: Ensure you meet all requirements before applying. This includes your residency period, immigration status, English language level, and travel history. If you’re unsure, seek advice before submitting.
- Prepare your documents in advance: Gather all required documents early. This includes your ID, BRP, marriage certificate, test certificates, and proof of residence. Make sure they are up to date and complete.
- Select referees who meet the criteria: Your referees must meet the Home Office’s standards and be willing to provide their details. Delays often happen when a referee does not qualify or the form is completed incorrectly.
- Be clear and consistent: Your information should match your previous visa records and official documentation. Inconsistencies can delay or harm your application.
- Allow time for each step: Avoid rushing your application. Take time to fill in the form carefully, collect your documents, and attend your biometric appointment without stress.
- Seek professional advice: If you have experienced visa refusals, lengthy absences, or issues with your immigration status, a professional can help you submit a stronger application.
Speak to Our British Citizenship Lawyers Today
At Gulbenkian Andonian, we have decades of experience guiding clients through UK visa and citizenship applications. If you’re applying for British citizenship through marriage and want to get it right the first time, we can help. Our team will assess your circumstances, confirm whether you meet the requirements, and assist you in preparing a clear and well-supported application..
Contact us today at +44 20 7269 9590 or submit an enquiry through our website to discuss your case with an expert.
FAQs
I am married to a British citizen. Can I get a British passport?
No. Being married to a British citizen does not, by itself, give you the right to a British passport. You must first qualify for British citizenship. In most cases, that means securing the correct immigration status, becoming free from immigration time restrictions, and then applying for naturalisation if you meet the residence, good character and English language requirements. Only once you have become a British citizen can you apply for a British passport.
Can I apply for a British passport immediately after obtaining citizenship?
Yes. Once you have attended your citizenship ceremony and received your certificate of British citizenship, you can apply for a British passport. Your citizenship certificate is not a travel document, so applying for a passport is usually the next step.
How long does it take to process an application for British citizenship through marriage?
Processing times vary, but many applications are decided within six months. Some cases take longer, particularly where the Home Office asks for further information or needs to carry out additional checks.
What is involved in the citizenship ceremony after applying for citizenship?
If your application is approved, you will usually be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony. At the ceremony, you will make an oath or affirmation of allegiance and a pledge to the United Kingdom, and you will receive your certificate of British citizenship. The ceremony is an important and usually mandatory part of the process.
What if my application to become a British citizen is refused?
There is usually no full right of appeal against refusal of a British citizenship application, but you may be able to seek reconsideration in some cases. This may be possible where you believe the decision was not made in line with the law, policy or proper procedure.
Why is professional advice important when applying for British citizenship through marriage?
Professional advice can be valuable because British nationality law is technical and fact-sensitive. A qualified immigration solicitor can assess your eligibility, identify any weaknesses in your case, and help ensure that your application is properly prepared and supported before it is submitted.
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Dr Bernard Andonian is the Co-Founder of Gulbenkian Andonian Solicitors and a leading authority in UK immigration, human rights, family and civil litigation law. With over 40 years of experience, he brings a wealth of legal knowledge and courtroom expertise. A former Judge and a recipient of a PhD in Law from the University of West London, Dr Andonian has served on the Law Society’s Immigration Law Panel, where he played a key role in shaping national legal standards. His name is featured in the Legal 500 Hall of Fame, recognising his consistent excellence and influence in the field. Known for his practical approach and deep understanding of immigration law, he is frequently consulted for commentary on policy changes and legal reform.