It may be feasible to regain British citizenship after renouncing it, depending on the circumstances. Individuals should first review the eligibility criteria available online to determine if they qualify.
It’s important to be aware that due to the impact of COVID-19, the processing of applications may take longer than usual. However, this delay will not have any impact on the outcome of the application. Moreover, we will provide applicants with additional time to provide fingerprints, photographs, and any other necessary information, as well as to book a citizenship ceremony.
Application
We encourage individuals to submit their applications online and note that they can typically retain possession of their documents while we review their applications.
If an individual resides in the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or a British overseas territory, they will need to apply for citizenship in person or by mail. I recommend that you check with the governor’s office to determine which application method is appropriate for your circumstances.
Individuals residing in other locations can apply for citizenship by mail, but it’s important to note that this process may take significantly longer than applying online due to COVID-19. Therefore, we recommend that applicants avoid using this method, especially if they require their documents by a specific deadline.
It’s important to know that applicants who lack confidence in using a computer or mobile device or do not have access to the internet, can receive assistance with completing the online application form. However, this service is only available to those applying from within the UK, and it does not provide immigration advice.
Applicants must pay the current registration fee, and it’s important to note that the fee is non-refundable, even if the application is declined.
Supporting Documents
Regarding the necessary supporting documentation, applicants must provide the following:
- A copy of the renunciation declaration (either form RN1 or R6)
- A current passport or a certificate of naturalization/registration for their current citizenship/nationality
- An official letter or statement from their current country of citizenship/nationality indicating that they would have lost or been unable to obtain it if they had not renounced their British citizenship.
Individuals who renounced their United Kingdom and Colonies citizenship will also be required to provide:
- The birth or registration certificate of the individual with whom the applicant has a UK connection, along with evidence of their relationship, such as a birth, marriage, or civil partnership certificate.
- Proof that the applicant renounced their citizenship because they believed that failing to do so would result in the loss of their citizenship in a Commonwealth country. This must be a separate letter explaining the situation, accompanied by any necessary supporting documents.
Applicants should review the guidance materials for further information as they may require different supporting documents if they renounced their citizenship for a reason other than the risk of losing or being unable to obtain citizenship in another country.
Biometric & Supporting Documents
As part of the application process, individuals must schedule an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide their biometric information, including fingerprints and a photo.
Applicants must also submit supporting documents, which can include:
- Upload them through the online service
- Get them scanned during the UKVCAS appointment.
Please note that applicant must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man until we make a decision on their application. If they violate this condition, they will have their application withdrawn.
Individuals applying from the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or a British overseas territory will receive instructions on how to provide their biometric information and supporting documents during the application process.
