Secure Your Future with British Citizenship

Becoming a British citizen is a significant milestone, granting you the right to live, work, and travel freely in the UK without immigration restrictions. British citizenship provides long-term security, full rights as a UK national, and access to one of the world’s most powerful passports.

At Garth Coates Solicitors, we specialise in guiding clients through the Naturalisation process, ensuring that every step is completed accurately and efficiently. Whether you are applying based on residency, marriage to a British citizen, or another route, our experienced team will assess your eligibility, help prepare the required documents, and ensure a smooth application process.

If you are considering applying for British Citizenship, get in touch with us today for expert legal guidance.

Eligibility for British Citizenship

Applying for British Citizenship requires meeting specific legal criteria. The most common routes to Naturalisation are through residency or marriage to a British citizen. If you meet the requirements, you may be eligible to apply for British Citizenship. Our expert solicitors can assess your case and guide you through the process with confidence.

Residency Requirements

To apply for British Citizenship, you should have held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or Permanent Residence for at least 12 months before applying, unless you are married to a British citizen. You should have lived in the UK for at least 5 years before applying, or 3 years if applying as the spouse of a British citizen.

Absence Requirements

You should not have spent more than 450 days outside the UK in the last 5 years, or 270 days in the last 3 years if applying as a spouse. Additionally, you should not have been absent from the UK for more than 90 days in the last 12 months before applying. Exceeding these limits might be considered.

Marriage to a British Citizen

If you are married to a British citizen, you can apply for British Citizenship immediately after obtaining ILR or Settled Status, without waiting for 12 months. You should have lived in the UK for at least 3 years before applying, meeting the necessary residency and absence requirements.

Good Character Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate a good character record, meaning they must not have a serious criminal history, immigration breaches, or any record of deception in previous applications. Any previous offences or unresolved legal matters may impact the application.

English Language and Life in the UK Test

To qualify for British Citizenship, applicants must prove their English proficiency by passing a B1-level English language test, unless exempt. Additionally, all applicants must pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses knowledge of British history, culture, and laws.

How We Can Help with Your British Citizenship Application

Applying for British Citizenship involves strict legal requirements and a detailed application process. A mistake or missing document could lead to delays or even refusal. At Garth Coates Solicitors, we ensure your application is accurate, complete, and fully compliant with Home Office requirements, maximising your chances of success.

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Comprehensive Eligibility Assessment

We conduct a detailed review of your immigration history, residency status, absences from the UK, and good character requirements to ensure you meet all the criteria before submitting your application.
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Expert Guidance on Documents and Evidence

We help you gather and prepare all essential documents, including proof of residency, financial records, language test results, and Life in the UK test certificates. If you have extended absences or previous visa issues, we advise on the best approach to strengthen your case.
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Application Preparation and Submission

Our team handles the entire application process, ensuring all forms are correctly completed and all supporting documents are submitted in line with Home Office requirements. We also liaise with the Home Office on your behalf to track the progress of your application.
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Assistance with Complex Cases

If you have immigration history concerns, or prolonged absences from the UK, we prepare legal representations to address these issues and provide a strong case for approval.
International passport of a citizen of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Support for British Passport Applications

Once your citizenship is granted, we assist with applying for a British passport, ensuring a smooth transition to enjoying your full rights as a British national.
Two official British passports ready for summer vacation and holiday abroad

Why Choose Garth Coates Solicitors?

Applying for British Citizenship is a significant step, and choosing the right legal support can make all the difference. At Garth Coates Solicitors, we offer expert guidance, meticulous case preparation, and a high success rate in securing British citizenship for our clients.

Specialist Expertise in UK Immigration Law – With decades of experience in UK immigration, we understand the complexities of naturalisation applications and ensure your case is accurately prepared and professionally presented to the Home Office.

High Success Rate & Proven Track Record – Our strong legal strategies and attention to detail have helped numerous clients successfully obtain British citizenship, even in complex cases involving absences, criminal records, or previous visa issues.

Tailored Legal Support for Every Case – Every applicant’s journey is different. We provide personalised advice, ensuring your application is as strong as possible, particularly if you have extended absences or other challenges.

End-to-End Application Management – From your initial consultation to the final approval, we manage the entire process, handling all Home Office communications, document submissions, and legal representations on your behalf.

Trusted by Clients Worldwide – Our reputation for excellence has made us a trusted name in UK immigration law, with clients from all over the world relying on our expertise to secure their British citizenship.

Choosing Garth Coates Solicitors means securing expert guidance, minimising the risk of delays or refusals, and maximising your chances of success. Get in touch today to start your journey to British citizenship with confidence.
📞 Contact us today for expert advice.

Garth Coates Solicitors

Your Legal Partner

Garth Coates Solicitors is a leading immigration law firm in the UK, spearheaded by Garth Coates, who has a unique background as a former Immigration Officer before becoming a solicitor in 1994. With over 30 years of experience in the immigration sector, his and his team's comprehensive understanding of both the legal and administrative aspects of immigration provides an unparalleled advantage to our clients.

  • Specialist Expertise
  • High Success Rate
  • Outstanding Client Care
  • Proactive and Diligent Approach
  • Extensive Experience and Reliability
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Successful Applications and Still Counting
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Choose Garth Coates Solicitors for reliable, knowledgeable, and effective handling of your UK visa applications and all other immigration-related concerns. We are committed to guiding you through the immigration process with expertise and integrity.

Contact Us for Eligibility Check

+44 (0)20 7799 1600

Mon to Fri: 09.30am - 17:30 pm (UK Time) - excluding public holidays.