Check whether you meet the residence rules for British citizenship by naturalisation, using your ILR date and your trips abroad.
Loading the tool…
Residence requirements
| With ILR or settled status | Married to a British citizen | |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying period | 5 years | 3 years |
| Maximum absences in the period | 450 days | 270 days |
| Maximum absences in the last 12 months | 90 days | 90 days |
| Time with ILR before applying | 12 months | None (just have it) |
You must also have been in the UK on the day the qualifying period started, five (or three) years before the Home Office receives your application.
Other requirements
- Pass the Life in the UK test.
- Prove your English at B1 level or above (unless exempt).
- Be of good character, with no serious or recent criminal record or immigration breaches.
- Intend to keep living in the UK.
How absences are counted
Only whole days outside the UK count. The day you leave and the day you return don’t count as absences. The Home Office can use discretion if you’re slightly over the limits, especially for absences you couldn’t avoid, but there’s no guarantee.
Proposed “earned settlement” reforms would change how long it takes to get ILR, so check GOV.UK for the latest rules before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
How many days can I be out of the UK for citizenship?
No more than 450 days in the 5 years before you apply, and no more than 90 in the last 12 months.
How long after ILR can I apply for citizenship?
Usually 12 months after getting ILR, unless you’re married to a British citizen.
How much does it cost to become a British citizen?
£1,709 plus a £130 ceremony fee.
Do travel days count as absences?
No. Only whole days spent outside the UK count.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Apply for citizenship if you have ILR
- GOV.UK: Citizenship if your spouse is a British citizen
- GOV.UK: Home Office immigration and nationality fees, 8 April 2026
Last updated: