5 years for ILR (proposed increase to 10 years under 2025 white paper 'earned settlement' system) → 3 processing steps → passport
Average Total
6.5mo
Range
4–16mo
Speed Rank
#1 of 20
Residency Req.
5 years for ILR (proposed increase to 10 years under 2025 white paper 'earned settlement' system)
Background checks, Life in the UK test verification
Must pass Life in the UK test and meet English language requirement (B1 CEFR). Dual citizenship allowed. MAJOR: 2025 immigration white paper proposes increasing ILR qualifying period from 5 to 10 years under 'earned settlement' system — not yet implemented but creates significant planning uncertainty. IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge) £1,035/year per person. Skilled Worker threshold raised to £41,700 from Jul 2025. Skill level raised to RQF 6 (degree-level). Source: parliament.uk, connaughtlaw.com
Average naturalization processing time, all 20 countries. United Kingdom highlighted.
ILR qualifying period may increase to 10 years (2025 white paper)
Based on 200 community-tracked data points.
Source: Home Office published processing times, GOV.UK · Last updated: 2026-08