Who it's for
- People with ILR or settled status applying to naturalise
- Spouses and civil partners of British citizens on the 3-year route
- Applicants with something to explain, such as absences or a past issue
What's included
- About this template — qualifying periods, absence limits and good character
- Naturalisation requirements checklist — standard route v spouse route, with evidence for each
- Covering letter: continuous residence and absences table, English language, Life in the UK Test, good character (with a disclosure section) and intention to remain
Save with a bundle: get this plus 15 more documents in the Immigration Complete Bundle for £49.99.
See what's in the bundle →Key points covered
- Standard route: 5 years' residence and ILR held for 12 months; spouse route: 3 years and ILR at the date of application
- Absence limits: 450 days in 5 years (270 in 3 years for spouses) and 90 days in the final 12 months
- Good character looks at criminal record, immigration history, tax and honesty in past applications
- Disclose issues openly and explain them
- There is no right of appeal against a refusal, so get the application right first time
Read the guide
Related documents
Questions
Is this a character reference?
No. It is the applicant's own covering letter. Form AN has its own referee section.
What absence limits apply?
No more than 450 days in the 5-year period (270 in 3 years on the spouse route) and no more than 90 days in the final 12 months. The Home Office can use discretion in some cases.
Do I need ILR first?
Yes. You need ILR or settled status before you can apply to naturalise.
Is it in the Immigration Complete Bundle?
Yes. The Immigration Complete Bundle includes every DocPilot immigration template.
Citizenship Supporting Letter
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