Apply for UK citizenship online: Step-by-step 2025
Ready to apply for UK citizenship online in 2025? This guide walks you through every step — from eligibility checks and the Life in the UK Test to biometrics and your ceremony — with time-saving tips to avoid refusals and delays.
We will cover what to do before you start, how the online Form AN works, document uploads, fees, UKVCAS biometrics, typical timelines, common mistakes, and tools to help you pass the Life in the UK Test on your first try.
Who this step-by-step is for (and what to expect)
This guide is for adults applying to naturalise as a British citizen via the online route in 2025. If you need to apply for UK citizenship online, or you are preparing for the Life in the UK Test, you will find practical, current instructions here.
How the online route works in 2025
The naturalisation journey is digital-first. You complete Form AN on GOV.UK, upload documents, pay the fee, and then attend a UKVCAS appointment for biometrics.
Create/sign in to your GOV.UK account.
Complete Form AN (naturalisation) online.
Upload your documents (or have them scanned at UKVCAS).
Pay the application fee online.
Book your UKVCAS biometrics appointment.
Await a decision (usually within 6 months).
Book and attend your citizenship ceremony.
Method | When your application is received | Document handling |
|---|---|---|
Online | Same day you submit | Upload copies or scan at UKVCAS |
Post | Longer (postal delivery time) | Physical documents sent |
Source: GOV.UK guidance confirms that if you apply online, your application is received on the same day, and you can upload documents to the online service or have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment.
What you’ll achieve by the end
Your online Form AN submitted with the correct fee.
Biometrics appointment booked at a UKVCAS service point.
Clear next steps to decision and your citizenship ceremony.
Before you start: check eligibility and readiness
Confirm you meet the core rules before paying fees. According to GOV.UK, to naturalise you must be over 18, have lived in the UK for the qualifying period, intend to continue living here, be of good character, have passed the Life in the UK Test, and prove knowledge of English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic.
Residency and absence rules (quick check)
Qualifying residence: Typically 5 years before the application date (3 years if you are the spouse or civil partner of a British citizen).
Presence rule: You must have been physically present in the UK exactly 5 years before the date the Home Office receives your application. Applying online means the submission date is the receipt date.
Immigration status: You must be free from immigration time restrictions at application, and usually for at least 12 months (unless applying as the spouse/civil partner route).
Absence limits apply during the qualifying period. Check the official Form AN guidance for the latest thresholds and how to calculate trips abroad.
Tip: If you were outside the UK on that exact date five years ago, consider waiting until a date when you were in the UK to submit your online application.
Life in the UK Test: what’s required
You must pass the Life in the UK Test before you submit your application. You book the test online but sit it in person at an approved test centre. Make sure the name and details you use for booking match your ID and your citizenship application.
Use our detailed guide to booking steps and ID rules: How to book the Life in the UK Test: step-by-step.
English language and other prerequisites
Prove knowledge of English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic (approved tests or accepted qualifications).
Some applicants are exempt by age or long-term physical or mental condition (evidence required).
Be of good character and have obeyed immigration laws.
Always check the latest official criteria on the GOV.UK citizenship page and the Form AN guidance.
Get test-ready fast: pass Life in the UK on your first try
If the handbook feels overwhelming, use a focused plan and tools that mirror the real exam. Many candidates pass faster by combining official-style content with active practice and feedback.
Smart study plan (7–10 days)
Days 1–2: Skim the full handbook content once to map topics. Do a baseline mock test.
Days 3–5: Study by chapter. Use spaced review and mix quick quizzes with short summaries.
Day 6: Take 2–3 timed mock tests. Review explanations for every wrong answer.
Day 7: Switch to weak-topic drills. Retake a full mock in Hard Mode conditions.
Optional Days 8–10: Alternate mixed quizzes and full mocks until your score is consistently 90%+.
Use the Life in the UK Test App
The Life in the UK Test App removes overwhelm and helps you track real readiness:
Complete handbook content optimised for mobile learning.
Brit-Bear study assistant for bite-size guidance and motivation.
Dynamic readiness score so you know when you are test-day ready.
650+ questions with detailed explanations, realistic mock tests, and Hard Mode.
Offline access for commuting or study on the go.
Why it works: targeted practice plus Hard Mode reduces surprises on the real test and saves you the cost and stress of retests.
Download the app: Download on App Store | Get it on Google Play
Book your test online (sit in person)
Choose your test centre and time on the official booking system.
Use the same identity details (names, date of birth, ID number) you will use on Form AN.
Bring the exact ID you used to book. Arrive early; late arrivals may not be admitted.
For a deeper walkthrough, see: How to book the Life in the UK Test.
Create your GOV.UK account and start Form AN
When you are eligible and test-ready, head to GOV.UK to start the online AN application. You can save progress and return anytime before submitting.
Personal details and identity
Enter your full legal name, any previous names, and your date and country of birth.
List all UK addresses for the qualifying period. Ensure they match your evidence.
Keep names consistent with your Life in the UK booking and your identity documents.
Immigration history and residence
Provide BRP details (if you have one), visa history, and the date you obtained ILR/settled status.
Enter all trips outside the UK during the qualifying period with accurate dates.
Upload proof of lawful residence when required.
Good character declarations
Disclose any criminal convictions or civil penalties, including fixed penalties if asked.
Declare bankruptcy or serious financial issues if relevant.
Answer questions fully and honestly. Inaccurate declarations can lead to refusal.
Referees section (who qualifies and how to enter)
You must provide two referees and their contact details. Make sure they meet the criteria set out in the latest Form AN guidance before you proceed. Avoid referees who are relatives or otherwise excluded.
Documents: prepare, scan, and upload correctly
You do not need to send original documents by post when applying online. Upload copies into the service or have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment.
Must-have docs for most applicants
Valid passport or national ID card.
BRP (if held) and proof of ILR or settled status.
Life in the UK Test pass notification.
Proof of English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic (accepted tests/qualifications) unless exempt.
Evidence of residence and travel history as requested by the form.
Any additional evidence requested by the online checklist.
Digital file rules (naming, size, clarity)
Scan in colour with all edges visible and text clearly legible.
Use PDF or JPG as recommended by the portal; compress large PDFs to stay within limits.
File naming tip: Surname_DocumentType_Date (for example, Singh_PassportBio_2025-03-10).
Check that document details match your form (names, dates, document numbers).
GOV.UK confirms you can upload copies to the online service or have them scanned at your appointment.
Pay fees, submit, and book biometrics
When the form and uploads are complete, you will see the fee and payment page. After paying, you will be redirected to book your UKVCAS appointment.
Naturalisation fee (excluding ceremony): GBP 1,605.
Ceremony fee: GBP 130.
Total typically payable for an adult naturalisation: GBP 1,735.
Always verify the latest fees on the official citizenship fees page. For a breakdown versus settlement costs, see our guide: ILR application fee vs UK citizenship cost 2025.
Choosing a UKVCAS appointment
UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) collects your biometrics and scans documents if needed.
Select a location and time that suits you; standard and premium options may be available.
Check the list of what to bring (ID, booking confirmation, any documents to scan).
Arrive early to avoid rescheduling if there are queues.
Biometrics day checklist
Bring the same ID you used in your application and Life in the UK Test booking.
Have your appointment QR/booking reference ready.
Expect fingerprints and a digital photo; follow staff instructions.
Confirm that all required documents are uploaded or scanned before you leave.
After you submit: tracking and timelines
According to the Home Office, you will usually get a decision within 6 months. If more details are needed, UKVI will contact you. Keep your contact details up to date and monitor your email (including spam folders).
If UKVI asks for more information
Respond by the deadline stated in the request message.
Upload additional documents through the link/system provided.
Ensure scans are clear and match your application details.
Approval, ceremony invite, and next steps
When approved, you will receive an email/letter and an invite to book your ceremony.
At the ceremony, you will make an oath or affirmation and pledge, and receive your naturalisation certificate.
You must return your BRP within 5 working days of receiving your certificate.
Planning travel? Apply for a British passport after your ceremony. See our checklist: Applying for British Passport: Post-Ceremony Checklist.
Common mistakes to avoid (save time and money)
Mismatched names or dates between your Life in the UK Test booking, ID, and Form AN.
Submitting on the wrong date when you were not physically in the UK exactly 5 years earlier.
Wrong or ineligible referees. Check the latest referee rules in the Form AN guidance.
Missing or unclear evidence, especially proof of ILR/settled status and travel history.
Miscounting absences. Re-check dates and keep records consistent across your form and documents.
Tools and resources (including your fast-track study app)
Use trusted sources and checklists to stay organised and compliant:
Official criteria and how to apply: GOV.UK citizenship guidance and how to apply.
Detailed rules and timelines: Form AN guidance (official).
What evidence and referees you will need: Citizens Advice overview.
Planning your wider journey: Applying for British Citizenship: Your 2025 Success Plan and ILR: Step-by-Step Roadmap.
Fast-track your Life in the UK prep: Get full handbook content, 650+ questions with explanations, Hard Mode, and a readiness score in the Life in the UK Test App. Download on App Store or Get it on Google Play.
Quick answers (FAQ)
Can I apply for UK citizenship online?
Yes. The online route is the standard path. Your application is received the same day you submit online.
Is the British citizenship test online?
You book the Life in the UK Test online, but the exam is taken in person at an approved test centre.
How much does naturalisation cost in 2025?
The naturalisation fee is GBP 1,605 plus GBP 130 for the ceremony (total GBP 1,735). Always check the latest official fees.
How long does a decision take?
Most decisions are made within 6 months, though timings can vary. UKVI will contact you if more information is needed.
Do I need to post my documents?
No. When applying online, you upload copies or have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment.
What happens after the ceremony?
Return your BRP within 5 working days and apply for your British passport before travelling.
Important: Rules and fees can change. Always verify on GOV.UK before you apply.