What documents are needed to get a British passport

What documents are needed to get a British passport - help from a lawyer

Foreigners can obtain British citizenship if they are the spouse of British citizens, were born in the country or have lived there legally for six years. In order to acquire this status, in addition to fulfilling residency requirements, it is necessary to comply with a number of conditions defined by the Law "On Citizenship and Borders". In particular, applicants must pass tests on knowledge of the English language and cultural aspects of life in Great Britain, as well as meet the established requirements for the period of stay in the country.

A British passport opens up opportunities for life in a developed European country with a stable economy and a high standard of living.

Benefits of a British passport

The status of a citizen of the United Kingdom provides a number of advantages, including:

• the possibility to live freely in any country of the European Economic Area;
• employment without any restrictions;
• visiting 174 countries without a visa or through a simplified visa procedure;
• service in local and European banks;
• ability to earn a high salary (in the second quarter of 2024, the average monthly income in the UK was approximately €3,250);
• access to all state medical and social services;
• the opportunity to conduct commercial activities in Great Britain and EEA countries on favorable terms.

Who can apply for British citizenship

Adults who meet the following criteria can apply for British citizenship:

• they do not pose a threat to national security;
• plan to settle in Great Britain after obtaining a passport;
• have a continuous stay in the country from 3 to 6 years, depending on the grounds;
• hold an Indefinite Residence Permit (ILR) for 12 months after a five-year stay (standard procedure only);
• demonstrated knowledge of English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic at CEFR level B1;
• successfully passed the Life in the UK test;
• have not left the country during the 12 months prior to submitting the application, as well as for no more than 270 and 450 days in the case of obtaining status based on a previous 3- and 5-year residence;

List of documents required to obtain a British passport

Documents received abroad must be translated into English and notarized.

The UK Citizenship Application Package includes:

• a completed questionnaire of the established sample;
• foreign passport;
• a document confirming the right to reside in the country (based on a valid ILR, marriage, partnership or birth certificate);
• registration number of the certificate of successful completion of the "Life in Great Britain" test;
• confirmation of availability of the required level of financial resources;
• personal details of two British guarantors;
• receipt for payment of state tax.

Depending on the basis on which the foreigner is in the country, additional documents may be required, such as:

1. employment contract or service contract;
2. business registration documents or approved business plan;
3. awards for outstanding achievements or official endorsements from the relevant organization;
4. confirmation of family ties with a citizen or resident of Great Britain;
5. document certifying receipt of international protection in the country.

The role of a solicitor when obtaining a British passport

A solicitor plays an important role in the process of obtaining a British passport by providing advice on eligibility, assisting with the collection and correct processing of documents, arranging for translations and notarization of foreign documents and completing the application form without errors. 

In addition, the lawyer supports during the preparation for the "Life in Great Britain" test, submits additional documents, if necessary, and represents the client's interests in case of refusal or problems with government authorities. 

This helps reduce risks and increases the chances of successfully obtaining citizenship.

How to order the services of a lawyer in Great Britain

If you need help in the process of submitting documents for obtaining a British passport or have questions about your legal status, we recommend that you contact professional lawyers at consultant.net.ua. Our specialists have many years of experience in these matters and are ready to help you with all aspects of obtaining a passport. Choosing our services, you can be sure of receiving high-class legal support. For information on consultations and the cost of services, call +447418377298.