The spouse must have continuously resided in the United States after becoming a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least 3 years immediately preceding the date of filing the naturalization application and must have lived in marital union with his or her citizen spouse for at least those 3 years.
Adults. An adult may be able to apply to naturalise as a British citizen if they have lived in the UK lawfully for five years and have been settled in the UK for at least one year. The spouse or civil partner of a British citizen may be able to apply after three years of residence if they are settled in the UK.
It roughly takes 5 years to get British citizenship, but you must be present in the UK with a valid visa (as a spouse, this is indefinite leave to remain).
Marriage alone doesn't grant residency. Exceptions exist for those who are already British citizens or holding another visa, like a work visa.
Eligibility. You must have permission to stay ('leave to remain'). You must also have been in the UK legally for 10 years without gaps (known as your 'continuous residence'). This can include time on most immigration categories, or a combination of different immigration categories.
No, marriage to a British national does not automatically guarantee UK residency. The spouse of a British citizen must still apply for a UK spouse visa to reside in the UK. This visa requires satisfying specific eligibility criteria, including knowledge of English, financial stability, and a genuine relationship.
At the moment, British and American citizens are qualified for dual citizenship without having to lose their nationality. To know if you are eligible for British-American dual citizenship and how to apply, call us at +1 844 290 6312 or contact us online.
You will usually get a decision on your application for British citizenship by marriage within 6 months, although some applications can take longer. In the event that your application is successful you will have 90 days in which to attend a Home Office citizenship ceremony.