When you make a visa application, you can apply individually, potentially use the Nationality Checking Service at your local council or use an immigration solicitor in London, like Saracens Solicitors.

The advantage of using our service is that we can help you navigate the complex bureaucratic processes that are often involved in visa applications – especially those that you hope will lead to citizenship.

Employing a professional firm means you are more likely to cover all the paperwork you need, have good representation, if required, and have someone to help you through the appeals process, if necessary. Particularly at a time like this, when immigration controls are changing and becoming more stringent, engaging an immigration solicitor in London can make all the difference if you want to become a UK citizen.

What requirements are there?

Your circumstances dictate the type of visa that you need but all of them require you to meet the following criteria:

• You must be over the age of 18. Children and dependents may be considered as part of a visa application process but this is done separately;
• You must not have recently committed any serious offence, in any country. This includes attempting to defraud the Home Office or being found to be in the UK illegally so it is important that you conduct yourself according to the rules from the outset. If you have a criminal record, talk to an immigration solicitor in London, like Saracens Solicitors, and we can advise you as to whether it is likely to be prohibitive to citizenship;
• Your intention must be to remain in the UK once your citizenship has been granted. You are expected to be able to contribute to the UK and support yourself when you are here;
• There are criteria that you must meet in order to indicate that you will be able to integrate yourself into society. These are – knowledge of the English language and familiarity with UK life. We can let you know how to go about proving that you meet this requirement. Some people are exempt and Saracens Solicitors can advise you on your eligibility for exclusion from this expectation.