Form AN is intended for adults aged 18 and over who meet certain residency and status criteria. To qualify, you must usually have lived legally in the UK for at least five years and held Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme for at least one year. If you’re married to a British citizen, the five-year residence period is reduced to three years, and you can apply immediately after receiving ILR or Settled Status. Applicants must also have been physically present in the UK exactly five (or three) years before the application date, and must not have breached immigration laws during the qualifying period.
Naturalisation through Form AN requires you to meet a range of statutory requirements. These include:
Residency Requirements: You must not have spent more than 450 days outside the UK during the last five years (or 270 days over three years if married to a British citizen).
Good Character Requirement: The Home Office assesses your criminal history, financial records (such as bankruptcy or unpaid taxes), and any breaches of immigration law.
English Language Proficiency: You must pass an approved English language test (unless exempt) or hold a recognised degree taught in English.
Life in the UK Test: A mandatory multiple-choice test covering UK history, values, and culture.
Referees: You must provide two referees who have known you for at least three years and meet specific criteria.
Each of these criteria must be carefully evidenced and explained in your application, and small mistakes can lead to delays or refusals.
Applying for naturalisation is not simply about completing a form — it’s about presenting your case clearly, accurately, and persuasively. At Stretton Solicitors, we provide end-to-end support tailored to your circumstances. Our immigration solicitors will assess your eligibility, advise on how to meet the residency and character requirements, review your documents, and prepare a professionally compiled application. We’ll also provide guidance on English language testing, Life in the UK test preparation, and referee selection. With our help, you can avoid common errors and delays — and feel confident that your future as a British citizen is in trusted hands.
Becoming a British citizen is a proud and empowering achievement — but getting there requires accuracy, preparation, and expert guidance. At Stretton Solicitors, we make the naturalisation process simpler and more secure by offering the legal support you need every step of the way. If you’re ready to take the next step toward British citizenship, contact our immigration team today for a personalised consultation.
