In this article we will look at the requirements and circumstances where you can apply for British citizenship after having acquired Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
If you have settled status under the EU scheme, you must usually have lived in the UK for 12 months after getting it before you can apply. Prior to Settled Status, you might have held Permanent Residence status. This has now been replaced by the EU Settlement Scheme. You can no longer apply for British citizenship with Permanent Residence status.
You will also need to show that:
- you are over 18
- prove you were in the UK exactly 5 years before the day the Home Office receives your application
- prove your knowledge of English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic
- have passed the life in the UK test
- intend to continue living in the UK
- be of good character
Settled status alone may not be sufficient evidence of past lawful residence in the UK and it is necessary to provide evidence of residence for the relevant period. We can advise you on the evidence necessary in your individual circumstances.
Time you’ve spent outside the UK
There is a further requirement, i.e. you must proove that have not:
- spent more than 450 days outside the UK during the 5 years before your application
- spent more than 90 days outside the UK in the last 12 months
- broken any UK immigration laws
All cases will be considered individually and due to covid-19, personal, health or family reasons you many people will not be able to comply with this requirement. You can submit and explain your extenuating circumstances and the Home Office will have discretion when making their decision. It is important to consult a legal advisor in such cases.
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