Most adults applying to become British citizens go through a process called naturalisation. To be eligible you must usually have lived in the UK for at least five years, have held Indefinite Leave to Remain for at least one year, be of good character, intend to continue living in the UK, and have passed both the Life in the UK test and a B1 English language test.
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The application is made online via the Home Office. You will need two referees — one usually a professional person, the other a British citizen — to vouch for your good character. There is a substantial fee, which the Home Office reviews each year, plus a separate ceremony fee paid to your local council.
Once approved, you are invited to a citizenship ceremony within three months. There you take the oath or affirmation, give the pledge, receive your certificate of naturalisation and can apply for a British passport.
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