What is Dual Citizenship?
Dual citizenship, commonly referred to as dual nationality, is when an individual holds two citizenships at the same time. Each country has their own laws regarding dual citizenship, with some nations not permitting citizens to have more than one citizenship.
In the UK, dual citizenship is allowed so when you become a British citizen you can retain your original citizenship. Equally British citizens applying for foreign citizenship are not required to renounce their British citizenship.
To become a British dual national you must apply tonaturalise as a British citizen, there is not a separate application for dual citizenship. When applying for citizenship you can opt to retain your current citizenship status from your home country if permitted.
Who is Eligible for Dual Citizenship?
You can be eligible for British dual citizenship providing that you meet the requirements for becoming a British citizen and that your original country permits you to retain your citizenship. To be eligible to naturalise as a British citizen you must:
- Have lived in the UK for at least 5 years
- Havesettled statusin the UK
- Pass theLife in the UK Test
- Meet the English language requirement
- Meet the good character requirement
The exact requirements will vary depending on your circ*mstances.
As not all countries allow you to retain your original citizenship when becoming a British citizen you may be required to renounce your original citizenship in order to become a British citizen.
Which Countries Allow Dual Citizenship?
Other countries have their own nationality laws when it comes whether their citizens are permitted to hold dual citizenship but there are many countries that do allow dual citizenship with the UK, including::
- Australia
- Canada
- France
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Portugal
- Sweden
- United States
If you’re unsure whether your country permits dual citizenship then you should check with an immigration lawyer before making an application.
Which Countries Don’t Allow Dual Citizenship?
Some countries do not allow dual citizenship with any country and some only allow it for specified countries. Some examples of countries that do not permit British dual citizenship include:
- China
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Singapore
These countries require you to give up your citizenship if you intend to apply for British citizenship.
Reach out to IAS for advice on understanding whether dual citizenship is an option for you.
The Benefits of Dual Nationality
Being a dual citizen means that you will get the benefits that come with both of your citizenships. The main benefit to obtaining dual citizenship is that it will give you the right to live and travel between both countries.
As a British dual national you will have the same rights as any other British citizen, including the right to:
- Live, work and study in the UK permanently
- Apply for a British passportto travel freely in and out of the UK
- Vote in all UK elections
- Stand for office
- Access public funds and the NHS
Whilst being a dual citizen comes with many benefits it’s important to note that as a dual nation you could potentially be subject to double taxation and you must abide by the laws of both countries.
How to Apply for British Nationality
Naturalisation is the process used by most foreign nationals who wish to become a British citizens. You can apply for citizenship either online or by post.
The application process is complex, as well as completing the application form you will need to provide a substantial portfolio of evidence to prove that you meet the requirements, this includes:
- YourBiometric Residence Permitor eVisa if you have one
- A national identity document
- Evidence that you meet the English language requirement such as your SELT certificate
- Evidence of your continuous residence in the UK
- Evidence that you have passed the Life in the UK Test
You will also need to provide two eligible referees to prove your identity.
If your application is approved then you will be required to attend a British citizenship ceremony.
The application process for British citizenship is difficult to navigate alone and even the smallest mistake could result in your application being refused. It is highly advised that you seek the assistance of an immigration professional when it comes to your British citizenship application.
How Can IAS Help?
Our immigration lawyers are highly experienced in making British dual nationality applications. We can assign you a lawyer who can work with you through each step of the British dual nationality application process. They will help you source and gather your evidence, into a bundle that suits the Home Office’s processing methods. They will also oversee your entire application process, liaising with the Home Office on your behalf.
As part of our application services, your lawyer will also write an in-depth Letter of Representation that supports your application. This letter will argue your case directly to the Home Office, strengthening your application. Alongside this, they will also prepare you for the compulsory ‘Life in the UK’ test and your English Language test to put you in the best possible position for a positive result.
If you need support, you can get in touch with ourLondon,Manchester, orBirminghamimmigration lawyers, or alternatively, use theoffice finderto find the closest branch to you. Contact us now on0333 363 8577or use our online contact form to speak with an immigration lawyer and help you take your first steps towards gaining dual citizenship.
We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.
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