Becoming a British citizen is the final step in your immigration journey and one that brings immense pride and security. For the thousands of residents across Longsight, Gorton, Levenshulme, Stockport, and Bolton who have made Manchester their home, British citizenship means a British passport, full voting rights, and the permanent right to call the UK home. As specialist immigration solicitors in Manchester, MCR Solicitors has guided hundreds of applicants through the naturalisation process.
Routes to British Citizenship
Naturalisation (Most Common)
The most common route is naturalisation under Section 6(1) of the British Nationality Act 1981. You must:
- Be aged 18 or over
- Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for at least 12 months
- Have lived in the UK for at least 5 years before the application date
- Not have been outside the UK for more than 450 days in the last 5 years
- Not have been outside the UK for more than 90 days in the last 12 months
- Pass the Life in the UK test
- Meet the English language requirement
- Be of good character
Naturalisation as Spouse of British Citizen
If you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, the requirements are slightly less strict:
- 3 years residence (instead of 5)
- Not more than 270 days absence in the last 3 years
- Not more than 90 days absence in the last 12 months
The Good Character Requirement
The Home Office conducts thorough background checks including:
- Criminal record checks in the UK and abroad
- Compliance with immigration laws and tax obligations
- Financial soundness (not bankrupt at the time of application)
- General conduct and any involvement in dishonesty
Our immigration lawyers in Manchester can advise if any past issues might affect your good character assessment.
The Application Process
- Check eligibility — our immigration solicitors will verify you meet all requirements
- Gather documents — passport, ILR card, Life in the UK test pass certificate, English language evidence, and two referees
- Complete form AN — the naturalisation application form
- Pay the fee — currently £1,580 per adult
- Submit the application — online with supporting documents
- Wait for decision — typically 6 months
- Attend citizenship ceremony — within 3 months of approval
The Citizenship Ceremony in Manchester
Once your application is approved, you must attend a citizenship ceremony where you will take an oath of allegiance to the King and pledge to respect the rights, freedoms, and laws of the United Kingdom. Manchester City Council holds regular ceremonies at Manchester Town Hall, a magnificent setting for this important occasion. You can invite family and friends to share the moment.
Choosing Your Referees
You need two referees who:
- Have known you for at least 3 years
- Are British citizens
- Are not related to you or each other
- One must be a professional (solicitor, doctor, teacher, etc.)
Living in a diverse community like Longsight or Gorton, many of our clients have British friends and professionals who can serve as referees.
Dual Nationality
The UK allows dual nationality, so you do not have to give up your existing citizenship when becoming British. However, check whether your home country also permits dual nationality, as some countries require you to renounce your original citizenship.
Why Choose MCR Solicitors?
As one of the most trusted Manchester law firms for immigration, we offer:
- Thorough eligibility assessment before you apply
- Complete application preparation and form checking
- Advice on good character issues and how to address them
- Support with document gathering and referee selection
- Accessible location for clients from Longsight, Gorton, Levenshulme, Stockport, and Bolton
Start Your Citizenship Journey
Contact our immigration solicitors in Manchester for a free initial consultation about your British citizenship application. Call 0161 466 1280 or email [email protected].
Need Legal Advice?
Our experienced solicitors are here to help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
Get In Touch or call 0161 466 1280