British Citizenship for EU, EEA and Swiss Nationals
If you hold EUSS settled status, British citizenship may now be within reach. We advise on eligibility, absences, good character, documents, fees and the safest timing for your application.
From Settled Status to British Citizenship
Many EU, EEA and Swiss nationals who secured status under the EU Settlement Scheme are now eligible, or close to eligible, for British citizenship. Naturalisation gives a stronger and more permanent position than settled status alone, including the right to a British passport and protection from future immigration rule changes.
Citizenship applications are evidence-heavy. Absences, good character issues, errors in the qualifying period or missing documents can cause refusal. We check the application before it is submitted so that problems are addressed early.
Current fee alert
From 8 April 2026, the Home Office adult naturalisation fee is £1,709. Life in the UK and English test fees may be additional.
Who Can Apply?
- You are aged 18 or over.
- You hold settled status or Indefinite Leave to Remain.
- You meet the residence and absence limits for the relevant qualifying period.
- You satisfy the Life in the UK and English language requirements, unless exempt.
- You meet the good character requirement.
- You intend to make the UK your home or serve the Crown overseas.
Key 2025–2026 Issues
| Issue | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Automatic EUSS conversion | If your pre-settled status was converted to settled status, check the grant date because it affects when you can naturalise. |
| Good character rules | Home Office guidance changed from 10 February 2025. Historic illegal entry or other immigration breaches need careful advice. |
| Fee increase | The naturalisation fee rose to £1,709 from 8 April 2026, so applicants should budget carefully before submission. |
Our Naturalisation Process
Eligibility Audit
We check settled status, qualifying residence, absences, good character and timing.
Documents and Form AN
We prepare the evidence bundle, complete the application and check for consistency.
Submission and Follow-up
We guide you through biometrics, UKVI correspondence and next steps after approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for British citizenship with pre-settled status?
No. You must normally hold settled status or Indefinite Leave to Remain before applying for naturalisation.
How long do I need to hold settled status?
Most applicants must hold settled status for 12 months. Different timing can apply if you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen.
What is the current naturalisation fee?
From 8 April 2026, the Home Office naturalisation fee is £1,709 for an adult applicant. Check the current fee before submitting.
How long does naturalisation take?
The Home Office commonly advises that decisions can take up to 6 months, though some applications take longer.
Do I need the Life in the UK Test?
Most adult applicants do. Limited exemptions apply, including age and some medical circumstances.
What English language evidence do I need?
You usually need B1 English evidence from an approved test or an accepted degree taught in English.
Can my children become British too?
Children are usually registered, not naturalised. Their route depends on where they were born and the parents’ status.
What does good character mean?
The Home Office considers criminal history, immigration compliance, deception, financial conduct and other matters. Since 10 February 2025, illegal entry issues can be especially serious.
Will immigration reforms affect EU nationals with settled status?
EUSS settled status holders are expected to have Withdrawal Agreement protections, but citizenship rules and policy can still change.
What if my application is refused?
You may be able to request reconsideration or submit a stronger fresh application. The refusal reasons should be reviewed carefully.
Speak to a Specialist
Tell us what status you hold, what deadline is worrying you, and what outcome you need. We will give you clear next steps and a practical view of your options.