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Lawyer on Issues of Immigration and Citizenship in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is an incredibly attractive country for living due to its political and economic stability, developed social security system, adherence to traditions, and a welcoming attitude toward immigrants. British education is among the best in the world, and a British passport grants visa-free entry to over 180 countries worldwide—something unique among English-speaking nations.

An important advantage is that obtaining a residence permit (VNP) in the UK does not require you to renounce your current citizenship, unless otherwise specified by the legislation of your country. In Ukraine, having a residence permit or permanent residence in another country does not require renunciation of Ukrainian citizenship. You retain all the rights and obligations of a Ukrainian citizen while holding a VNP or permanent residence in the UK. Only obtaining a British passport requires renouncing Ukrainian citizenship.

What is a UK Residence Permit  in Middlesbrough? - Immigration Lawyer

A Permanent Residence Permit (VNP) in the United Kingdom is a status that allows foreign nationals to live in the country without restrictions on the duration of stay. It is not citizenship but provides many rights similar to those of citizens: the right to work, study, access medical services, receive social assistance, and travel freely within the UK and Europe. A VNP is an important step towards citizenship.

Obtaining Permanent Residence in the UK (ILR) - Legal Assistance for British Citizenship There are various ways to obtain a Permanent Residence Permit (ILR) in the UK, including:

• 5 years as the spouse or permanent partner of a UK or EU citizen;
• 10 years of legal residence in the UK;
• 30 years (20 years of legal and 10 years of illegal) living in the country;
• 5 years in professional immigration categories.

Such categories include:

1. 'Investor' program (Tier 1 Investor), which requires investment in the UK economy to obtain citizenship through investment;
2. 'Entrepreneur' program (Tier 1 Entrepreneur), allowing individuals to start and run a business in the UK;
3. TIER 2 work category, which provides a work permit;
4. 'Sole Representative' category for specialists representing a foreign company in the UK.

All these categories allow individuals to live in the UK with their family, who can also obtain permanent residence and, later, British citizenship. After one year of holding permanent residence (ILR), individuals can apply for British citizenship and receive a British passport.

What Does a UK Residence Permit Provide  in Middlesbrough? - Consultation on Residence Permits in the UK 

A UK Residence Permit (VNP) provides almost all the rights of a British citizen. Among the most important advantages:

• Right to work: After receiving a VNP, you can work in any sector that does not require special permits.
• Right to education: You have access to UK universities, medical, and other educational institutions on equal terms with British citizens.
• Social benefits and healthcare: After receiving a VNP, you are eligible for social benefits and medical services.
• Business rights: You can start and run your own business without needing additional permits.
• Citizenship opportunity: After 12 months on a VNP, you can apply for British citizenship, provided you meet the necessary requirements.

How to Obtain UK Citizenship? - Immigration Lawyer Services in the UK 

Obtaining UK citizenship is the final step toward full integration into British society. To do this, several stages must be completed:

1. Obtain VNP: To apply for UK citizenship, you must first have permanent residence for 12 months. This means you must live in the country on VNP for at least 5 years (except for some special categories).
2. Naturalization process: The naturalization process involves applying for citizenship, where you must demonstrate knowledge of the English language, no serious criminal offenses, and the ability to support yourself financially. Additionally, you will need to pass a test on British culture and history.
3. Language and culture: It is important to have a level of English sufficient for understanding and participating in everyday life. You must also confirm knowledge of key aspects of British culture and history by taking a special test.
4. Financial stability: To obtain UK citizenship, you must demonstrate your financial stability. This may include having a stable income to support yourself and your family.
5. Application process: The application for citizenship can be made through an online form or by mail. Applicants must pay the state fee, attend an interview, and pass the English language and British culture tests. The entire process can take up to a year.
6. Obtaining citizenship: Once the application is approved, you will go through the citizenship ceremony and receive a British passport.

What Immigration Options Are There to Obtain UK Citizenship  in Middlesbrough? - Lawyer for Permanent Residence (ILR) 

Depending on the specific situation and meeting the requirements, there are several paths for those seeking UK citizenship:

• By descent 

This option is for those born outside the UK but have British parents or grandparents. To obtain citizenship by descent, you must provide evidence of family ties and, in some cases, meet residency requirements and prove good character.

• By naturalization 

Naturalization is the most popular method for those wishing to become British citizens. To qualify, you must have lived in the UK for at least five years (or three years, depending on the circumstances) and hold permanent residence status (ILR). Applicants must pass the 'Life in the UK' test, demonstrating knowledge of British culture and history, and confirm English proficiency.

• Citizenship by birth 

Being born in the UK does not always guarantee automatic citizenship. The right to British citizenship by birth may depend on factors such as birth date and parents' status. For instance, individuals born before 1983 are entitled to citizenship, while those born after may only qualify if at least one parent is a British citizen or resident at the time of birth.

• EU Settled Status 

If an individual lived in the UK under EU law for a specified period (usually five years), they may obtain EU Settled Status, which is equivalent to ILR. After receiving this status, the applicant can apply for naturalization. If the applicant is not married to a British citizen, they must live as a settled resident for at least one year before applying.

• Through marriage 

Individuals living in the UK for at least three years and married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen may apply for citizenship after residing in the country. However, certain conditions must be met, including limitations on the number of days spent outside the UK during this period.

Cost of Obtaining UK Citizenship - Naturalization Assistance in the UK 

Applicants for UK citizenship must pay a fee: adults typically pay £1,330, while children pay £1,012. Additionally, £50 must be paid for the 'Life in the UK' test and approximately £150 for the English language test. It is important to note that these fees are non-refundable if the application is rejected, so careful document preparation is crucial to avoid mistakes.

Duration of the UK Citizenship Process - Legal Support for Obtaining a British Passport 

The process of obtaining citizenship can take varying amounts of time, depending on the type of application and case complexity. Generally, applicants can expect a response within six months, although this may be delayed due to additional checks or the need to provide further documents.

Benefits of UK Citizenship - Specialist in Citizenship through Marriage in the UK UK citizenship grants you:

1. Visa-free entry to over 180 countries worldwide.
2. The right to participate in elections.
3. Access to all social, medical, and educational services in the country.
4. Free access to the job market without restrictions.
5. Permanent residence in any region of the UK without the need for constant registration.

Important Aspects for Immigrants  in Middlesbrough

Lawyer for Residence Permit Extension: After receiving a residence permit (VNP), you automatically become a tax resident of the UK, meaning you are required to pay taxes on your global income.

Family Support: You can include your family in your application for VNP and citizenship, ensuring a shared future in the UK.

Processing Time: The process of obtaining a residence permit or citizenship can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the type of visa and your specific case.

Document Requirements: It's essential to prepare all necessary documents correctly to avoid delays or refusals during the process.

Frequently Asked Questions