Applying
for British
Citizenship?

30 March 2015

The way in which you apply for British Citizenship is changing due to new rules being implemented as of 6 April 2015.

These new measures will mean that anyone registering or naturalising as a British Citizen will need to provide their biometric information as part of their application. The same requirement will apply to all non-EEA nationals applying for a residence card, derivative residence card or permanent residence card.

What is my biometric information?

Your biometric information refers to your fingerprints and facial image. These must be taken and submitted as part of your application.

How do I submit my biometric information?

If applying from within the UK, you will need to visit a post office in order to have your biometric information recorded. If you are applying from overseas, it will be necessary to have your biometrics taken and submitted at a biometric enrolment centre, such as a Visa Application Centre.

What happens to my biometric information afterwards?

Fingerprint information is generally retained for up to 10 years after being submitted. For those who are permanently settled in the UK or are considered to pose a threat to the UK, information will be retained for immigration or nationality purposes.

Once you are granted British Citizenship, your fingerprints will be deleted. Your photograph will be retained, however, until you receive your first British passport.

Applying for British Citizenship can be a complex business. If you are looking to become a British Citizen, contact a Smith Stone Walters’ Immigration Advisor today and let us make the processing of your application stress-free and professionally successful.

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