I came here under a Dependent Visa as a spouse of a British citizen Arrived - October 2019 My BRP states expiry will be June 2022 What are my next steps? I have gathered that I can apply for FLR(M) as early as 28 days prior to the expiry of the visa. After that, what is the next step? Can I already apply for british citizenship by about November 2022? Since I have read that if you are a spouse of a British citizen then you will only need 3 continuous years to be in the UK? Can you share your experiences?
Unfortunately there are two requirements to apply for citizenship which are: 1. Must be free from immigration control on day that apply. Normally means having ILR which can only apply for after five years in country - October 24 And 2. Have been married to UK citizen for three years. With a few exceptions means it takes five years plus time taken to process ILR application before can apply for citizenship. Three year rule was only really relevant years ago when as a spouse could get ILR quicker. On a plus side as a spouse don't have to wait a year after ILR before applying for citizenship.
Agree. Your steps are: Initial visa - 2. 5 years. FLR - 2. 5 years ILR (about 2300 quid at current prices but no need to pay the immigration health surcharge) Certificate of naturalisation ( approx 1300 quid at current prices) British passport As already mentioned, when you receive your ILR you will by then have been resident for at least 5 years and as a spouse there is no requirement to then wait a further year before applying for a certificate of naturalisation.
I think you are confusing two paths one ( the one you are on) is nationalisation by becoming a British Citizen 5 year route. The other is a legal naturalisation (3 year path) ie for application by for example EU citizens who have lived in the UK for 3 years.
