Renouncing your British citizenship can be a life-changing decision influenced by personal or professional reasons. However, regaining your British citizenship status is not a straightforward process. Understanding the long-term implications and considering options like dual nationality is crucial before taking this step.
For more detailed information about British citizenship and assistance with your application, contact our expert immigration advisers at 020 7439 3000 or online today.
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Giving up your British Citizenship
To give up your British citizenship, you must apply for a “declaration of renunciation,” which officially states that you are no longer a British citizen. People often renounce their citizenship to become citizens of countries that do not allow dual nationality.
You can renounce various forms of British citizenship, including:
- British citizenship
- British overseas territories citizenship
- British overseas citizenship
- British subject status
- British national (overseas) status
Renouncing British resident status affects only you, not your family members. However, it could have consequences for any future children you may have. It is highly recommended to seek legal advice before making this decision due to its significant long-term implications.
Read the guidance to check if you can apply.
Applying to give up your citizenship
Before renouncing your British citizenship, ensure you meet the following criteria; otherwise, your application will be rejected, and the fee will not be refunded:
- You already have another citizenship or nationality.
- You are going to get another citizenship or nationality after giving up your United Kingdom citizenship (this must be done within a set time period).
- You must be aged 18 or over (unless you’re under 18 and married).
- You must be of sound mind (unless it’s in your best interest to give up your British nationality).
If living in the UK, apply online to renounce your citizenship. If living overseas, apply by post. Once processed, you will receive a ‘declaration of renunciation’ with the date your British citizen status ceases. You have six months from receiving your declaration to obtain another citizenship; otherwise, the declaration will expire, and you will retain your British citizenship.
Regaining British Citizenship
Regaining British citizenship after renunciation involves reapplying and meeting specific criteria. Approval is not automatic, so be sure of your decision to revoke it initially. To re-register as a British citizen, you must:
- Be of sound mind and good character.
- Have made a declaration of renunciation after 1983 or before 1983 for UK and Colonies citizenship.
- Demonstrate a connection to the UK through yourself, your father, grandfather, spouse, or spouse’s family.
Remember, you have only one opportunity to be registered as a British citizen if you previously renounced it for another citizenship. If renounced for any other reason, reacquisition is at the discretion of the Home Office.
Required documentation and fees
To regain British citizenship, you need to provide various documents, including:
- A copy of your Declaration of Renunciation (e.g., form RN1, RN2, RN3, RN, or R6).
- Evidence of your current citizenship or nationality (passport, certificate of naturalisation, or registration).
- Proof of connection to the UK if renouncing UK and Colonies citizenship.
- A letter or statement confirming you would have lost another nationality if not for renunciation.
The application fee is currently £1,206, non-refundable if refused. If successful, attending a Citizenship Ceremony to receive your certificate will incur an additional fee.
Considering dual nationality
Instead of renouncing British citizenship, consider dual nationality if the country you are interested in allows it. Many countries, such as Australia, Canada, France, and the United States, permit dual citizenship with the UK. However, some countries like China, India, and Japan do not.
How Edmans & Co can help
A certificate of British citizenship is essential to prove your right to live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions. Edmans & Co provides expert legal advice on UK immigration law, helping individuals establish eligibility, assist with applications, and liaise with the Home Office.
Please use the form below to get in touch with us. You can also book a consultation directly to discuss your case with one of our lawyers.
For more information and assistance, contact us at 020 7439 3000 or online today.
FAQs about regaining British citizenship
You will need to complete Form RS1 and provide proof of former citizenship, reasons for renunciation, evidence of current ties to the UK, and any other relevant documentation as required by the Home Office. The process can take several months, depending on the complexity of your application and the volume of applications being processed by the Home Office. No, if the renunciation was done to avoid legal responsibilities or during times of war, it is unlikely that your application for reacquisition will be approved. While it is beneficial to show strong ties to the UK, including residency, it is not an absolute requirement. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Yes, there is an application fee that must be paid when submitting Form RS1. The fee amount can vary, so it is advisable to check the latest information on the official UK government website.
For expert advice and assistance on living and working abroad as a British citizen, call us at 020 7439 3000 or contact us online today.
