f you have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, you might be wondering how to take the next step toward full British citizenship and obtaining a UK passport. Having ILR does not automatically grant you a British passport—you must first apply for British naturalization and then proceed with your passport application.
In this guide, we will walk you through the complete process, including eligibility criteria, required documents, application steps, processing times, and common mistakes to avoid.
1. Can You Apply for a British Passport After ILR?
Before applying for a British passport, you must first become a British citizen. ILR allows you to live and work in the UK indefinitely, but it does not grant you nationality. To be eligible for a British passport, you must:
✔️ Have held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for at least 12 months (unless married to a British citizen).
✔️ Meet the residency requirements for British naturalization.
✔️ Pass the Life in the UK test and prove your English language proficiency.
✔️ Have good character (no serious criminal convictions or immigration violations).
Once you successfully naturalize as a British citizen, you can apply for your first UK passport.
2. Step-by-Step Process to Get a British Passport After ILR
Step 1: Apply for British Citizenship Through Naturalization
Before you can apply for a UK passport, you must complete the British naturalization process. Follow these steps:
1️⃣ Check Eligibility: Ensure you have held ILR for at least 12 months (or immediately if married to a British citizen).
2️⃣ Gather Required Documents, including:
- ILR biometric residence permit
- Proof of residency (utility bills, bank statements)
- Life in the UK test certificate
- English language test results (if applicable)
- Two referees for your application
3️⃣ Submit Your Naturalization Application Online via the UK Home Office website.
4️⃣ Attend Biometrics Appointment for identity verification.
5️⃣ Wait for a Decision: The process can take 3-6 months.
6️⃣ Attend the Citizenship Ceremony: Once approved, you will receive a Certificate of British Citizenship.
✅ After naturalization, you are officially a British citizen and can apply for your first British passport!
Step 2: Apply for Your First British Passport
Once you have your Certificate of British Citizenship, you can apply for a UK passport through the HM Passport Office.
📌 How to Apply:
✔️ Online Application: Faster and more convenient through the UK government website.
✔️ Paper Application: Available at UK Post Offices for those who prefer a manual process.
📌 Documents Required:
✔️ Certificate of British Citizenship
✔️ Current ILR Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
✔️ Proof of Identity (e.g., driving license, national ID)
✔️ Two Passport-Sized Photos (must meet UK passport photo requirements)
✔️ Referee Details (a professional person who can confirm your identity)
📌 Passport Fees and Processing Times:
- Standard Service: Costs £88.50 and takes 3-6 weeks.
- Fast Track Service: Costs £155 and takes 1 week.
- Premium Same-Day Service: Costs £193.50 but is only available for renewals, not first-time applications.
3. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a British Passport
❌ Applying for a UK passport before getting British citizenship – ILR alone does not qualify you for a passport.
❌ Failing to provide correct documents – Ensure all documents, especially your citizenship certificate, are included.
❌ Using an incorrect passport photo – Follow the UK passport photo guidelines strictly.
❌ Not allowing enough processing time – Apply well in advance if you need your passport for travel.
4. Frequently Asked Questions About Applying for a British Passport After ILR
❓ Can I get a British passport if I have Indefinite Leave to Remain?
No, ILR does not grant you a British passport. You must first apply for British naturalization, become a British citizen, and then apply for your passport.
❓ How long does it take to get a British passport after ILR?
The entire process can take 6-9 months (including naturalization and passport processing). If you apply for fast-track passport services, you may receive your passport within a week after naturalization.
❓ How much does it cost to apply for a UK passport after ILR?
- British naturalization fee: £1,500
- First adult UK passport fee: £88.50 (standard service)
❓ Do I need to return my ILR card after getting a British passport?
Yes, once you receive your British passport, you must return your ILR Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) to the Home Office.
Final Thoughts: Your Path to a British Passport After ILR
Applying for a British passport after ILR is a two-step process—you must first naturalize as a British citizen, and then you can apply for a UK passport. Ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria, submit the correct documents, and follow the process correctly will help you secure your British nationality and travel privileges.
If you need expert assistance with your British naturalization or passport application, consult an immigration advisor to avoid delays or mistakes.
🔹 Need help with your application? Drop your questions in the comments! 🚀