British Citizenship for EU or EEA Nationals
Many EU or EEA Nationals have started process to get their British Citizenship before Brexit. On 23rd June 2016, the British public voted by a small majority to leave the European Union (EU). Known as Brexit, this move has resulted in many European citizens get concerned about their residency status in the near future. Therefore, they see the way to secure residency status permanently is to acquire British Citizenship.
Our team understand the insecurity felt by many EEA nationals and are here to help with the immigration matter. We will take away all the anxiety you feel and provide expert advice and representation on obtaining Permanent Residency status and British Citizenship.
What Is the Difference Between Permanent Residency and British Citizenship?
When you have permanent residency status in the UK, you have the right to live and work in the UK for life. There are no restrictions for leaving and entering the UK. However, should you be out of the country for more than two years, you risk losing residency status. In order to secure your PR status in the UK, you must obtain an EEA Permanent Residence Card through application.
Once you have your EEA Permanent Residence Card, you can apply for British Citizenship. British citizens have no visa restrictions; you will be able to live and work in the UK, and enjoy all benefits of citizenship, including the right to vote.
Eligibility for British Citizenship for EEA Nationals
To be eligible for British Citizenship as an EEA national, you must:
- Have legally lived in the UK for at least five years
- Have an EEA Permanent Residence Card, due to new changes introduced on 12 November 2015
- Meet the continuous residency requirements
- Prove you meet the English language proficiency requirements through:
- Being a national of an English-speaking country
- OR an accepted English language degree
- OR successfully passing an accredited English language test
- Pass the ‘Life in the UK’ test
- Have a good character
- Plan to live in the UK permanently
How Do I Apply for British Citizenship?
Overseas applicants can now apply online. You will need to fill online form and answer all questions that are relevant to your application. You can edit and download the application before it is submitted. Those who are living in the UK, can use the Form AN for the application of British Citizenship by naturalisation. Our team can provide you with advice on the best options available to you and your family.
What Are the Documents Required to Obtain British Citizenship as an EEA National?
You will need to provide the following documents with your application (this is not an exhaustive list)
- Your passport/travel document and valid identity card (if applicable)
- Evidence of your English language proficiency
- Your Life in the UK test
- Your Permanent Residence Card
- Your marriage or civil partnership certificate, if applicable
Our team can assist you with collating the required documentation and ensure nothing is missed.
What Are the Advantages of Becoming a British Citizen?
The advantages of becoming a British Citizen are numerous. One of the most important is the emotional peace of mind in knowing that you have as much right to remain in the UK as a person who was born here, regardless of future government policies.
Other advantages include:
- You can travel in and out of the UK freely and for a long as you want
- You can fully participate in all local and general elections and exercise your right to vote
- You will be eligible for all state benefits and healthcare
What Can I Do If My Application for British Citizenship Is Refused?
Applications for British Citizenship can be refused for many reasons. One of the most common is that the application form has been filled in incorrectly and/or the right documentation has not been supplied.
If your application has been refused, our immigration lawyers will examine the reason why and provide expert advice on the best plan of action. The following options are available to you should your citizenship application be refused:
- Submit a new application;
- Request for your application being reconsidered, subject to a reconsideration fee; or
- Challenge the decision via Judicial Review
Why Choose A Y & J Solicitors to Help You Apply for British Citizenship as an EEA National?
Our highly qualified lawyers are experts in all aspects of obtaining British Citizenship. They will take a detailed look at your qualifying criteria and provide you with an honest evaluation of your citizenship entitlement. Our lawyers are patient, compassionate, and will carefully explain everything so you understand your situation and the opportunities available to you.
You have worked hard to qualify for British Citizenship, and it is important that you engage a professional who will do the very best to succeed with the application.
Yes, in most circumstances you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony if your application is successful and you are over 18. However, if you do decide to go along, there is a fee of £80 and you are permitted to bring two guests. Ceremonies take place at designated places.
The UK permits dual citizenship. EEA countries which do not allow a person to be a dual national are Austria, Estonia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway & Slovakia. However, international policies are constantly changing so it is advisable to check with your embassy or consulate on whether you will be permitted to retain the citizenship of your country of origin.
You must obtain an EU Permanent Residence Card to be eligible for British Citizenship.
Success Story on British Citizenship for EU or EEA Nationals
Precise Legal Representation won British Nationality Application
“British nationality is a privilege and not a right you were born with! Have you finally obtained your Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK and now wish to naturalise as a British citizen? Are you unsure if you can qualify for British nationality due to your absences in the last five years and 12…
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Tips to Choose a Right UK Immigration Lawyer
We are a specialised UK immigration law firm.
In this video, I will share some tips with you on how to choose a UK immigration lawyer.
There are five very important points you may wish to consider while choosing a UK Immigration Lawyer.
Number 1: UK immigration law is very specific, fast-changing and complex. You should not entrust your future to an individual/company that does not fully comprehend the complexity of UK immigration law. Therefore, our first tip is that you may want to consider choosing a lawyer who specialises in UK immigration law and has a wealth of experience in dealing with UK immigration applications and/or/appeals.
Tip Number 2: You will need a lawyer who will be honest with you. This includes discussions about the success chances of your immigration case, total cost and tentative time frame.
Tip Number 3: A lawyer’s reputation often precedes them – look for a lawyer who is known for honesty. Check out client reviews to see what others have said. When many people rate the same lawyer as honest after their transactions, chances are good that you’ve found an honest lawyer. Check out for independent review platform such as TrustPilot for real and verified reviews from actual clients.
Tip Number 4: How about choosing a lawyer who loves immigration law? One who cannot wait to get started on your case. A passionate lawyer who regularly sees success in immigration matters and tends to deliver great results.
Tip Number 5: Always look for a lawyer who is Authorised and Regulated. In most cases, lawyers in the UK are regulated by the SRA – Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or by the OISC. Professional certification or Awards are also good indications. It might be prominent on their webpage if they have this.
Finally, look for a lawyer who is always improving by staying up to date on the UK immigration rules and regulations, and is constantly upgrading their skills. This is particularly important in the UK immigration sector, where laws are changed frequently, and lawyers must know exactly what is required for each type of application or appeal.
If you look for these qualities in a lawyer, it is likely that you find someone who is going to take good care of your Immigration matter, while respecting you as a valuable, important individual.
If you require legal assistance with your UK Immigration matter, please get in touch with us. Our contact details are at the bottom of this video. We’re happy to help. Thank you.
They are one of the best immigration solicitors around. Perfect and professional, they help you out in every step of the process and guide you very professionally. We took our case to other solicitors but no one succeeded but A Y & J solved it in one go. Highly recommended.