With its world-class education, healthcare, and career opportunities, the United Kingdom (U.K.) is a top destination for many Indians. UK citizenship provides long-term security, access to public benefits and the ability to live and work freely in the country.
However, obtaining UK citizenship requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and completing a structured application process. This guide outlines everything you need to know about UK citizenship for Indians, including application requirements, fees and processing times.
How to apply for citizenship in the UK for Indians?
The steps to apply for UK citizenship for Indians include:
- Pass the ‘Life in the UK’ test: Take the test on the official government website and obtain the certificate as a mandatory requirement.
- Meet English language requirements: Obtain two referees and pass an English language test at B1, B2, C1 or C2 level.
- Complete the online application: Fill out the form on the government portal, ensuring accuracy.
- Submit required documents: Upload clear scanned copies of all necessary documents.
- Book a biometric appointment: Schedule an appointment with UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) for identity verification.
- Await the Government’s decision: The Home Office will review your application and notify you of the outcome.
Who is eligible to get citizenship in the UK from India?
Eligibility for U.K. citizenship can be determined through various pathways, including the following:
Citizenship by naturalisation
You can apply for UK citizenship through naturalisation if you:
- Are 18 or older
- Have lived in the UK for at least five years
- Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settled Status for at least 12 months
- Meet the good character requirement
- Pass the ‘Life in the UK’ test and an English proficiency test
Citizenship by marriage
Citizenship in UK for Indian citizens can also be attained if one is married to a U.K. citizen. After living in the U.K. for at least three years, you can apply if you meet all other naturalisation criteria.
Citizenship by birth
Children born in the U.K. are considered citizens if one of their parents is a British citizen or has settled status.
Documents required to apply for citizenship in the UK
The documents required to apply for citizenship of UK for an Indian citizen are:
- A completed application form
- Proof of identity (passport, driving licence or official ID)
- English language test certificate (B1, B2, C1, or C2)
- ‘Life in the U.K.’ test certificate
- Proof of U.K. residency (utility bills, bank statements or official letters)
- ILR or Settled Status proof
- Character references (reference letters or background checks)
- Biometric residence permit
Processing fees to apply for citizenship in the UK
An adult applying for U.K. citizenship through naturalisation must pay a total of £1,630. Additionally, they must pay £50 for the ‘Life in the UK’ test and around £150 if an English language test is required.
How to get citizenship in the UK for families?
Families can obtain U.K. citizenship through naturalisation by living in the U.K. for five years or three years if one’s spouse is British.
Applicants must also meet all other eligibility requirements and pass the ‘Life in the U.K.’ test.
Does a child born in the UK receive citizenship by birth?
Children born in the U.K. do not automatically get citizenship. One of their parents must be British or have a settled status.
Additionally, children born to non-British parents who have lived in the U.K. continuously for the first ten years of their lives are eligible to apply for U.K. citizenship.
Why are applications for citizenship in the UK rejected?
The application is rejected if the UK citizenship requirements for Indian applicants are not met. Other common reasons include a previous criminal record, delays in responding to requests for further information, incorrect paperwork, insufficient proof of residency or failing the required tests.
FAQs
- How long does the citizenship application process take?
The process typically takes around six months, but delays may occur due to document verification issues or a high volume of applications.
- How to get UK citizenship for Indian parents?
Indian parents may become eligible for U.K. citizenship after completing five years of residency in the U.K., followed by 12 months of holding ILR.
- Will I be eligible for NHS healthcare without UK citizenship?
Even if you are not a UK citizen, the NHS provides treatment, but eligibility depends on your immigration status. If you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), you will have access to NHS services.
However, if you are a visitor, you can receive free emergency care, but other treatments will be chargeable. It is advisable to have travel insurance to cover any additional medical expenses. Single trip travel insurance can also help cover trip cancellations or delays, lost or stolen baggage and more.
Conclusion
Gaining citizenship of UK for Indian applicants is a structured but rewarding process. You can make the U.K. your home by meeting the eligibility criteria, submitting the required documents, and following the correct steps.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.