British citizenship
This section provides information about British citizenship and other forms of British nationality. It explains whether you are a British citizen, how you can apply for British citizenship and other forms of British nationality, and how you can give up your citizenship.
Naturalising as a British citizen in the future
Depending on your current citizenship or nationality you may be able to apply in several ways. You should read the requirements for each type of application that is relevant and decide which is best for you.
If you are unsure if you meet the requirements, you should contact us for advice.
In this section
What is British citizenship?
This page explains what British citizenship is and what other types of British nationality there are.
Who has the right to live in the United Kingdom?
This page explains who has the right to live in the United Kingdom without any immigration restrictions (normally called the right of abode).
Who can apply for British citizenship and other forms of British nationality?
This section explains the requirements you need to meet before you apply to become a British citizen or to register for another form of British nationality.
How do I apply for British citizenship or another form of British nationality?
This section provides details of how you can apply for British citizenship, British overseas territories citizenship, British overseas citizenship, or British subject status. It includes information on how to complete the form, the cost of applying and current waiting times.
How do I give up (renounce) British citizenship or another form of British nationality?
This section explains how you can give up (renounce) your British citizenship or other British nationality if you want to become a citizen or national of another country.
What if my application is refused?
This page explains what to do if your application for citizenship or other form of nationality is unsuccessful and you do not think we have applied the law or our policy correctly.
Can I be a citizen of two countries?
This page explains whether you can be a citizen of two countries and the same time (usually known as dual nationality) and how this will affect you when travelling overseas.
Withdrawal of your citizenship (deprivation)
This page explains why we may withdraw your British citizenship (deprive you of it) if you deliberately provide us with incorrect information when making an application.
How do I apply for a British passport?
This page explains how you can apply for a British passport if your application for British citizenship is successful.
Contact us
This page provides our contact details. You should contact us if you are unable to find the answer to your questions on this site.
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Terms explained
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Green Paper
A consultation document produced by a government department when it is considering introducing a new law. The document allows the public and parliament to debate the proposals and comment on them.