[PDF] asking for british nationality

Do I need to check if I am a British citizen?

You need to check if you’re a British citizen. You may be eligible to apply for citizenship if you were born in the UK and are not automatically a British citizen. To apply as the spouse or civil partner of a British citizen you must have lived in the UK for the last 3 years. If you do, you’ll be eligible to apply for citizenship immediately.

Who is eligible for British citizenship?

American citizens living in the UK and those living in the United States who are applying for British citizenship are required to be 18 or above in order to be eligible for citizenship. British citizenship can also be acquired by naturalization.

What is a British nationality?

The principal class of British nationality is British citizenship, which is associated with the British Islands. British nationals associated with an overseas territory are British Overseas Territories citizens (BOTCs). Almost all BOTCs (except for those from Akrotiri and Dhekelia) have also been British citizens since 2002.

How do I apply for British citizenship?

You can usually apply for citizenship online or by post. If you’re from the Channel Islands, Isle of Man or a British Overseas territory, you must apply by post. It's a good idea to send your paper application by recorded delivery, so you can make sure it's delivered.