If you have obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain, this means that you may remain in the UK without restrictions on how long you can stay. This does not make you a British citizen, however; so, if you’d like to adopt the British nationality you would need to first apply for Citizenship, then apply for a British passport.
Eligibility for a British passport after ILR
Once you have been granted Indefinite Leave to Remain, you will need to wait for a minimum of 12 months before being eligible to apply for British citizenship, after which you can apply for a passport. If your spouse of civil partner is British, then you may apply for Naturalisation immediately after securing Indefinite Leave to Remain without waiting.
You will first need to meet the other eligibility requirements for citizenship, including:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have lived in the UK for at least 5 years without breaking any immigration laws (3 years if your spouse or civil partner is British).
- Pass the Life in the UK Test.
- Prove your knowledge of the English language.
- Meet the ‘good character’ requirements.
- Intend to continue living in the UK.
You will find more information about the requirements for British citizenship on our dedicated page.
Application & costs
British passport applications can be made online on the Home Office website, or by post. Applying by post will cost you an additional £9.50.
Depending on your age and what type of passport you are applying for, passport fees may vary.
If you are 16 and over, an online passport application will cost you:
- £75.50 for a standard passport.
- £85.50 for a frequent traveller passport.
For children under 16, online application fees are as follows:
- £49 for a standard passport.
- £59 for a frequent traveller passport.
How long does it take to get a British Passport?
It can take up to 10 weeks to receive a British passport with the standard service. If you need a passport urgently, or are requesting a frequent traveller passport, you may check availability for either the online premium service or the 1-week fast track service.
You will need to attend an appointment at your nearest passport office. The online premium service allows you to receive your passport at the appointment, while the 1-week fast track service will allow you to get the passport within 1 week of the appointment. Note that certain premium or fast-track services are only available if you need to renew or replace a passport, or get a first child passport.
Need assistance?
If you require help to apply for British Citizenship or a passport after obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain, our team can ensure that you are meeting all of the requirements and have all the documents to prove that you do. If you would like to benefit from our experience, please contact us and we can discuss your case.
