Can a Greek Citizen Apply for UK CItizenship?
Greek citizens can get UK citizenship mainly through Naturalisation, requiring 5 years of lawful residence (or 3 years for spouses of UK citizens), Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settled Status (from the EU Settlement Scheme), B1 English, passing the Life in the UK test, and demonstrating good character, with pre-settled status holders often applying after 5 years of qualifying residence. The path usually involves first securing ILR or Settled Status via the EU Settlement Scheme (if you lived in the UK by 2020) or other visas, then meeting the residency and character criteria for naturalisation as a British citizen.
Key eligibility criteria include:
Residency Requirements: Generally, applicants must have lived in the UK for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a British citizen).
Age Requirement: Must be 18 years or older.
Good Character: No serious criminal record or immigration violations.
Language Proficiency: Demonstrate knowledge of English through approved tests or qualifications.
Life in the UK Test: Applicants must pass the official Life in the UK Test, covering British history, culture, and government.
Paths for Greek Citizens (Post-Brexit)
EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
If you lived in the UK by 31 December 2020, you likely have Settled or Pre-settled Status.
With Settled Status, you can live in the UK permanently and apply for citizenship after meeting the 5-year residency requirement.
With Pre-settled Status, you can apply for citizenship after 5 years of continuous residence, provided you meet work/study/self-sufficiency criteria during that time.
UK Immigration Routes → ILR → British Citizenship
For Greek citizens who did not live in the UK before Brexit (or did not qualify under the EUSS), other immigration routes can lead to UK citizenship:
Skilled Worker Visa (or other work visas)
Greek citizens can apply for a work visa (e.g., Skilled Worker visa). After typically 5 years of lawful residence under such a visa, they can apply for:
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) (permanent residence)
British citizenship after 12 months with ILR and other criteria met (residence, language, Life in the UK test)
Family Route
If married to or in a partnership with a British citizen, Greek nationals can apply for settlement faster—often after 3–5 years, depending on specific conditions—and then apply for citizenship after ILR.
Other Long‑Term Routes
Other eligible visas, such as Global Talent, Innovator, or Investor routes, can also eventually lead to settlement and citizenship, depending on length of stay and fulfilment of requirements.
Use this tool to check if you can become a UK citizen.
Benefits of UK Citizenship
Right to Live and Work: Unrestricted rights to reside, work, and study in the UK.
Global Mobility: British passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries.
Political Rights: Ability to vote and run in UK elections.
Social Services Access: Full access to healthcare, education, and other social programs.
Required Documents for Greek Citizens Applying for UK Citizenship
Passport: Valid Greek passport (and UK residence permit if applicable).
Proof of Residency: Rental agreements, utility bills, or employment contracts showing continuous residence.
Marriage Certificate: If applying as a spouse of a British citizen.
Language Proficiency Evidence: Approved English language certificates or qualifications.
Life in the UK Test Certificate: Proof of passing the official test.
Criminal Records: Police certificates or background checks from Greece and the UK.
All non-English documents must be submitted with certified translations, which can be provided by Translayte.
Step-by-Step UK Citizenship Application Process for Greek Citizens
Check Eligibility: Confirm residency, age, language, and conduct requirements.
Gather Documents: Collect all required paperwork and have non-English documents translated.
Complete Application Form: Submit the Form AN (for naturalisation) online or by mail.
Pay Fees: Standard application fees apply; check the official Home Office site for current amounts.
Attend Biometrics Appointment: Provide fingerprints and photographs for identity verification.
Take Life in the UK Test (if required): Schedule and pass the official test.
Await Decision: Processing typically takes 6–12 months.
Attend Citizenship Ceremony: Successful applicants attend a ceremony and receive a certificate of British citizenship.
Certified Document Translation for UK Citizenship
UK authorities require accurate translations for all non-English documents. Translayte provides certified documents translations for passports, birth and marriage certificates, criminal records, and other official documents to ensure full compliance with Home Office standards.
Tips for a Successful UK Citizenship Application
Prepare documents well in advance to allow time for translation and verification.
Confirm that your residency and immigration records meet UK Home Office requirements.
Practice for the Life in the UK Test using official resources.
Ensure all translations are certified and legally recognised.
Costs of UK Citizenship Application
Adult Application (Naturalisation): ~£1,735 (includes ceremony fee).
Child Application: ~£1,214 (under 18).
Citizenship Ceremony: £130 (included in adult fee, extra for children turning 18).
Life in the UK Test: £50 (mandatory).
English Language Test: ~£150 (if required).
Translation cost: £100 - £300
Additional costs may include document procurement and legal assistance. See a list of application costs for UK citizenship.
What to Do If Your Application Is Refused
Common reasons for refusal include incomplete documentation, insufficient residency, failed tests, or criminal issues. Applicants have the right to appeal within the timeframe specified in the Home Office refusal notice. Consulting a UK immigration solicitor is recommended for appeals or complex cases.
