Many migrants living in the UK dream of eventually holding a British passport. For those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), this goal is within reach—but there are important steps to follow before applying.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of moving from ILR to British citizenship and then to your first UK passport, highlighting the rules for 2025, eligibility criteria, costs, and common mistakes to avoid.
Step 1: Understand the Difference – ILR, Citizenship & Passport
Before applying, it’s important to know the distinction:
- ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain): A form of permanent residency that allows you to live and work in the UK without time limits.
- British Citizenship: A legal status you must obtain before applying for a passport. ILR alone does not qualify you for one.
- British Passport: A travel document available only to British citizens, enabling visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries.
Key point: You cannot apply for a British passport directly after ILR—you must first become a British citizen.
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility for Citizenship in 2025
To apply for naturalisation (citizenship) after ILR, you must meet these requirements:
- Residency period: Usually 12 months after obtaining ILR. If married to a British citizen, you may apply immediately after ILR.
- Minimum UK residence: Lived in the UK for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a British citizen). Under new rules, some applicants may need up to 10 years depending on visa route.
- English language requirement: Prove proficiency through an approved test or qualifications.
- Life in the UK Test: A mandatory exam covering British culture, history, and laws.
- Good character requirement: No serious criminal convictions or immigration breaches.
Step 3: Apply for British Citizenship
- Form to use: The online AN form (Application for Naturalisation).
- Fee in 2025: £1,630 (including the citizenship ceremony cost).
- Processing time: Usually 3–6 months, but may take longer depending on demand.
If successful, you’ll attend a citizenship ceremony and receive your certificate of naturalisation. This document is essential for your passport application.
Step 4: Apply for Your First British Passport
Once you have your citizenship certificate, you can apply for your first UK passport.
Documents required:
- Certificate of naturalisation
- Current ILR BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
- Previous passports (to prove residency history, if requested)
- Passport photos (meeting UK standards)
How to apply:
- Online application via the official GOV.UK website
- Paper application through selected Post Office branches
Fees in 2025:
- Adult passport (34 pages): £88.50 online, £100 via paper
- Adult jumbo passport (50 pages): £96.50 online, £108 via paper
- Processing time: Around 6 weeks for first-time applicants (fast-track services may be available at extra cost)
Step 5: After You Get Your Passport
Once your British passport is issued:
- You will no longer need to carry your ILR BRP for travel.
- You gain full rights as a UK citizen, including voting rights and access to consular support abroad.
- Your ILR status lapses, as you are now a British national.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for a passport without first securing citizenship
- Failing the Life in the UK Test or not meeting language requirements
- Gaps in residency history leading to citizenship refusal
- Submitting incorrect or expired documents with your passport application
Final Thoughts
Applying for a British passport after ILR is a two-step process: first, secure British citizenship, then apply for your passport. While the process can seem complex, careful preparation ensures success.
By 2025, with longer ILR residency requirements and stricter language rules, planning ahead is more important than ever. But with the right documents and a clear timeline, your journey from ILR to holding a British passport is entirely achievable.