How to become a British citizen: your route, step by step
Most people become British in the same order: a visa that leads to settlement, an English test and the Life in the UK test, indefinite leave to remain, then citizenship and a passport. The details depend on your visa. Pick your route below for every step, cost and deadline in plain English.
Settlement rules are changing
In November 2026 the government confirmed "earned settlement": the standard wait for ILR will move from 5 to 10 years, with shorter routes for some people. No start date has been set yet; the government says guidance will be published before implementation. Until the rules change, the current rules below apply. What earned settlement means for you.
Pick your route
The 5 stages most routes share
- 1
A visa that leads to settlement
For example a spouse or partner visa, Skilled Worker visa or EU Settled Status. Most routes need 5 years before you can settle.
- 2
English and the Life in the UK test
Most adults need an approved English test and must pass the Life in the UK test (24 questions, pass mark 18) before settling.
Free Life in the UK practice → - 3
Indefinite leave to remain (ILR)
Permanent permission to live in the UK. ILR costs £3,226 (November 2026).
ILR calculator → - 4
British citizenship (naturalisation)
Usually 12 months after ILR, or straight away if you are married to a British citizen. £1,709 plus a £130 ceremony.
Citizenship date calculator → - 5
Ceremony and passport
Attend your citizenship ceremony, then apply for your first British passport.
First passport guide →
Example: the spouse visa route
- First spouse or partner visa: Month 0
- Extend your visa: Before your first visa expires (about 2 years 9 months)
- Indefinite leave to remain (ILR): After 5 years on the partner route
- British citizenship: Straight after ILR if your partner is British, otherwise 12 months after ILR
- Ceremony and passport: After approval
Free tools for every step
Frequently asked questions
How do I become a British citizen?
Most people become British by naturalisation: you live in the UK on a visa that leads to settlement, get indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or EU Settled Status, pass the Life in the UK test and meet the English requirement, then apply for citizenship, usually 12 months after ILR (or straight away if your spouse is British).
How long does it take to become a British citizen?
Usually about 6 years: 5 years on a visa to reach ILR, then 12 months holding ILR before applying. Spouses and civil partners of British citizens can apply as soon as they have ILR.
How much does it cost to become a British citizen?
The naturalisation fee is £1,709 plus a £130 ceremony fee (November 2026). Most people also pay for ILR (£3,226), the Life in the UK test (£50), an English test and earlier visa fees and health surcharges.
Do I need the Life in the UK test to become British?
Yes, unless you are exempt (for example under 18 or 65 and over). You need a pass for ILR and the same pass is reused for citizenship. It never expires.
Free guide, not legal advice. Checked against GOV.UK in November 2026. Rules and fees change, so always check GOV.UK: becoming a British citizen before you apply.