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Dual Citizenship

Information on holding British citizenship alongside citizenship of another country, including rights and restrictions.

Sections

1. What is Dual Citizenship?

Dual citizenship (also known as dual nationality) means being a citizen of two countries simultaneously. In the UK, it allows individuals to hold British citizenship while retaining citizenship of another country.

2. UK Regulations on Dual Citizenship

The United Kingdom allows dual citizenship. This means:

  • British citizens can acquire citizenship of another country without losing their British citizenship.
  • Foreign nationals can become British citizens without necessarily renouncing their original citizenship, provided their home country also permits dual nationality.

However, some countries do not allow dual citizenship. If you are from such a country, acquiring British citizenship may result in the loss of your original nationality. It is essential to check the laws of your home country before proceeding.

3. Eligibility for Dual Citizenship in the UK

To hold dual citizenship involving British nationality, you must meet the eligibility criteria for British citizenship. Common pathways include:

  • Birth: If you were born in the UK to at least one British or settled parent.
  • Descent: If you were born abroad to a British parent.
  • Naturalisation: If you have lived in the UK for a qualifying period and meet the requirements.
  • Registration: A route for certain individuals, such as children of British citizens or those with historical ties to the UK.

4. Costs Involved

The costs for obtaining British citizenship (and thus dual citizenship) depend on the route you take. Below are the key fees as of 2023:

Naturalisation Fees

  • Application fee: £1,330
  • Biometric enrolment fee: £19.20
  • Life in the UK Test: £50 (required for most applicants)
  • English language test: £150 (if applicable)

Registration Fees (for children or specific cases)

  • Application fee: £1,012 (for children under 18)
  • Biometric enrolment fee: £19.20

Other Costs

  • Legal advice or assistance (optional): £500–£2,000, depending on complexity.
  • Passport application (optional): £93 for an adult passport or £49 for a child passport.

5. Procedures for Obtaining Dual Citizenship

The process for obtaining British citizenship (and thus dual citizenship) depends on your specific circumstances. Below is a general outline for the most common route: Naturalisation.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

You must meet the following criteria:

  • Be over 18 years old.
  • Have lived in the UK for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a British citizen).
  • Hold indefinite leave to remain (ILR), settled status, or equivalent for at least 12 months (unless married to a British citizen).
  • Pass the Life in the UK Test.
  • Meet the English language requirement.
  • Be of good character (e.g., no serious criminal record).

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

Gather the required documents, which typically include:

  • Proof of identity (passport, biometric residence permit).
  • Evidence of residency (e.g., utility bills, council tax statements).
  • Proof of ILR or settled status.
  • Life in the UK Test certificate.
  • English language test certificate (if applicable).

Step 3: Submit Your Application

  • Apply online via the UK Government website.
  • Pay the application fee and biometric enrolment fee.
  • Book and attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photo.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

  • Processing times are typically 6 months, but delays can occur.
  • If successful, you will receive an invitation to attend a citizenship ceremony.

Step 5: Attend a Citizenship Ceremony

  • This is a mandatory step where you pledge allegiance to the UK.
  • The ceremony fee is £80 (included in the application fee).

Step 6: Apply for a British Passport (Optional)

Once you have your citizenship certificate, you can apply for a British passport.

6. Maintaining Dual Citizenship

Once you have dual citizenship, there are no additional requirements to maintain it in the UK. However:

  • You must ensure that your other country of citizenship also allows dual nationality.
  • You are subject to the laws of both countries, which may include taxation, military service, or other obligations.

7. Specific Considerations for Dual Citizenship in the UK

Here are some unique aspects to consider:

Travel

  • Dual citizens can travel using either passport, but you must use your British passport to enter and leave the UK.
  • Some countries may not recognise dual citizenship, which could affect your rights when travelling.

Taxation

  • The UK taxes individuals based on residency, not citizenship. However, your other country of citizenship may have different tax rules, so you may need to manage dual tax obligations.

Military Service

  • Some countries require citizens to perform military service. Check if this applies to your other nationality.

Consular Assistance

  • As a dual citizen, you may not be eligible for British consular assistance in your other country of citizenship.

Children

  • If you have children, they may automatically acquire British citizenship by descent, depending on your circumstances. However, this may not grant them dual citizenship unless the other country allows it.

8. Renouncing British Citizenship

If you wish to renounce British citizenship (e.g., to comply with the laws of another country), you can do so by applying to the UK Home Office. The fee for renunciation is £372. Note that renunciation is irreversible in most cases.

9. Key Resources

10. Final Tips

  • Always check the dual citizenship laws of your other country before applying for British citizenship.
  • Seek legal advice if you are unsure about your eligibility or the implications of dual citizenship.
  • Keep all your documents up to date, including passports for both nationalities.

If you have any further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!