England; Undoubtedly one of the most developed countries in the world! Living in England, which offers its citizens quality living standards in many respects; dream of countless people! At this point, the question of how to get British citizenship is in the minds of those who want to live in the UK for education, work and different reasons.
What is the UK Citizenship Right?
British citizenship; Just like the citizenship of other countries, it is taken in two different ways. In addition to the birthright citizenship, there is also the acquired citizenship right.
Birthright Citizenship In The UK
There are different options for British citizenship compared to the past. Until 1983, anyone born in the UK was automatically considered a British citizen. In addition, the sons of men who were British citizens but were born in a country other than England were also given the right to become British citizens. However, due to the abuse of this situation, the British government had to change the rule. It was a problem for many people to come to the UK, especially to give birth, in order for their children to become British citizens. British government passed a law to put an end to this situation. At this point, in order for a child to be a British citizen, both the person must be born in England and at least one of the parents must be a British citizen. In addition, the mother of a child born out of wedlock must be a British citizen.
Acquired UK Citizenship
British citizenship; It can also be earned later if certain conditions are met. We should mention that there are different types of applications for those who are wondering how to get British citizenship. Citizenship right can be obtained thanks to options such as the Ankara Agreement and Family Reunification, especially the work visa. However, whichever option is chosen, in order to obtain UK citizenship, individuals must have stayed in the UK for at least five years and have not left the country for more than 450 days.
In addition to all these, there are some basic criteria for the right of citizenship acquired afterwards.
- The individual must be over the age of 18.
- Must have the right of residence in the year preceding the application for UK citizenship. It is also important not to have left the country for more than 90 days in a year.
- An individual who wishes to become a British citizen must have a clean criminal record.
- It is required that the individual knows and proves at least one of the English language as well as Welsh and Scottish languages.
Is There Still a Chance to Become a British Citizen with the Ankara Agreement?
Another alternative for those wondering how to get British citizenship was the Ankara Agreement. Ankara Agreement; In 1963, this agreement was signed between the Republic of Turkey and Germany, France and the Benelux countries. Thanks to this agreement, the citizens of the party countries were given the chance to use the rights offered by the laws, regulations and practices of the said period. At this point, it became possible to obtain British citizenship with the Ankara Agreement Visa under the name of ECAA. Citizens of countries that have an agreement with the EU were given the right to establish their own business and settle in the UK. However, 31 December 2020 was the deadline for applying to the UK. With Britain’s exit from the European Union, the Ankara Agreement no longer had any effect on Britain.
