British Citizenship
If you are looking to become a British citizen, then Sterling Shore Solicitors are here to help.
We are leading experts in British citizenship and offer you a free initial assessment to ensure you meet the stringent requirements set out by the Home Office.
Our Lawyers, Solicitors and Barristers take ownership of the entire process from start to finish and will offer you continuing support until you receive your decision.
We provide expert legal advice and outstanding customer service all within a one-off fixed fee with no hidden charges.
What you need to know
You can apply to become a British citizen in the UK by either naturalisation or registration. The category you apply under would be based on your circumstances and length of residence in the UK.
You can apply if you have met the Residency, English Language, and Good Character requirements. The most difficult areas to overcome are the residency and good character.
The Residence requirement has several keys elements such as:
- You must have been resident in the UK for 5 years when you apply, or only 3 years if married to a British citizen.
- You should not have had more than 90 days’ absence in the immediate 12-month period before you apply. However, Home Office policy sets out circumstances when it can exercise discretion to overlook excess absences.
- You should not have had more than 450 days absence in the 5-year period of residence, or no more than 270 days if you are relying on a 3-year period. Again, the Home Office can exercise discretion to overlook excess absences in certain circumstances.
The requirement to be of ‘Good Character’ is interpreted strictly and there is currently a 53-page policy document which sets out how to assess Good Character. The areas that will be looked can include:-
- Prior or pending convictions;
- Deception or dishonesty especially in previous immigration applications
Refusal
If your application for British Citizenship has been refused you can make an application to the Home Office for reconsideration. You can pursue this route if the Secretary of State has made an error in law when considering your application. If your matter is successfully reconsidered your application can be granted. If the decision to refuse your matter is maintained, you may be able to escalate further by way of a Judicial Review.
Why you should instruct us
The British citizenship applications have specific rules set out by the Home Office; It is essential you demonstrate that you meet the strict requirements before you apply.
This is by far the most important application you will make to secure your British Citizenship which requires specific documentation in support of the application to satisfy the eligibility criteria set out by the Home Office.
From the beginning you will need the correct advice and assistance from our UK Immigration Specialists. Without our help you run the high risk of your application being refused and the loss of substantial fees.
Our Nationality Specialists will give you advice that is accurate, clear, and bespoke to your individual circumstances. We always endeavour to leave no stone unturned while analysing the intricacies that your case may present.
Our bespoke end-to-end service, legal representation, high success rate and proven track record gives you complete peace of mind knowing there is no aspect of UK Immigration Law beyond our expertise.
