Introduction

Obtaining a British passport after ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) approval is the final step towards full British citizenship. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, fees, and processing time for acquiring a British passport.

Eligibility for British Passport After ILR

To apply for a British passport after ILR, you must first apply for British citizenship through naturalisation. The key eligibility criteria include:

• Holding ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) or Settled Status for at least 12 months (unless married to a British citizen)
• Meeting the residency requirements (not spending more than 450 days outside the UK in the last 5 years)
• Demonstrating good character, with no serious criminal convictions
• Passing the Life in the UK test
• Meeting the English language requirement

Step 1: Applying for British Citizenship

Before applying for a British passport, ILR holders must first become British citizens. The process involves:

1. Filling out the UK Naturalisation Form (Form AN) – Available on the UK Government website.
2. Gathering the required documents:
   • ILR or Settled Status proof
   • Current valid passport or travel document
   • Life in the UK test pass certificate
   • English language proficiency proof
   • Proof of residence for the last 5 years
   • Referee details (two referees required)
3. Paying the citizenship fee – Around £1,500.
4. Attending a biometric appointment.
5. Waiting for a decision – Processing time is about 6 months.
6. Attending the citizenship ceremony – Once approved, you must take an oath of allegiance and receive your naturalisation certificate.

Step 2: Applying for a British Passport

Once you receive your naturalisation certificate, you can apply for a British passport. The process includes:

1. Complete the British Passport Application Form

You can apply online or via a paper application (Form OS).

2. Prepare Supporting Documents

Required documents include:

• British naturalisation certificate
• Current passport
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Identity verification from a British citizen (a professional person who has known you for 2+ years)

3. Pay the Passport Fee

• Standard adult passport (34 pages) – £82.50 (online), £93 (paper form)
• Frequent traveller passport (50 pages) – £91 (online), £104 (paper form)
• Express one-week passport service – £155
• Same-day passport service – £193.50

4. Submit the Application

Send your application via Royal Mail or submit online.

5. Attend an Interview (if required)

First-time adult passport applicants may be asked to attend an interview to confirm their identity.

6. Wait for Passport Processing

• Standard processing time – 3 to 6 weeks
• Fast-track service – 1 week
• Premium service – Same day

Benefits of Holding a British Passport

Obtaining a British passport offers several benefits, including:

• Visa-free travel to over 180 countries
• Full UK residency rights and access to NHS benefits
• Ability to live and work in the UK without restrictions
• Eligibility to apply for a UK driving license
• Protection under UK law and British consulates abroad