Citizenship and settlement
British Citizenship Application Checklist
Checklist for naturalisation evidence, Life in the UK Test, English, absences, referees, good character, documents, ceremony, and passport next steps.
Plain-English summary
A strong application starts before the form: confirm eligibility, settlement status, residence, absences, English, Life in the UK, good character, referees, and documents.
Best for: Adults preparing a British citizenship application.
What this guide covers
Eligibility and timing
Check status, residence period, and whether you need to wait after ILR or settled status.
- Confirm ILR or settled status date.
- Check spouse/civil partner of British citizen rules if relevant.
- Review absences before paying fees.
Evidence
Prepare evidence before starting the form.
- Pass certificate or reference for Life in the UK.
- English qualification or exemption evidence.
- Passports, BRPs/eVisa, travel history, employment/self-employment/tax records, and proof of residence.
Final review
Review carefully for consistency and disclosure.
- Check names, dates, travel, addresses, jobs, and immigration history.
- Confirm referees meet rules.
- Seek advice for good character concerns.
Checklist
Use this as a practical planning list, then confirm official rules for your status and local area.
- 1Confirm eligibility and timing.
- 2Pass Life in the UK Test if required.
- 3Prepare English evidence or exemption.
- 4Calculate absences.
- 5Choose two referees.
- 6Review good character.
- 7Prepare documents and payment.
- 8Plan ceremony and passport application.
Trusted starting points
Use official and established advice sources before relying on social media, forums, or paid services.
Related guides
Citizenship and settlement
Citizenship roadmap
Understand the journey from visa or settled status to ILR, Life in the UK Test, English evidence, naturalisation, ceremony, and passport.
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Study plan
A practical revision plan using handbook chapters, topic tests, mock exams, mistake review, flashcards, dates, and timed practice.
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After passing the test
What to do after passing: keep evidence, check ILR or citizenship requirements, English, absences, documents, application timing, ceremony, and passport.