FAQ

How long can I stay outside the UK before applying to naturalise as a British citizen?

Generally, to apply for naturalisation as a British citizen, you need to prove 5 years’ residence without gaps outside the UK of more than 450 days in total, and that you were not absent for more than 90 days in the last year before application.

If you are married to a British citizen, you need to prove 3 years' residence without gaps of more than 270 days in total, and again that you were not absent for more than 90 days in the final year.