Acquiring British citizenship undoubtedly comes with an assortment of benefits. Once you get British citizenship, you will be entitled to the same rights and advantages as all other British citizens. People from around the world want to get settled in the United Kingdom because of the significant benefits of UK citizenship. That’s the primary reason you must acquire British citizenship and a British passport. Read out this piece of information to understand the benefits of British citizenship.
What are the Benefits of Getting British Citizenship?
Here are some of the effective benefits that you can attain from British citizenship.
- Right to Live in the United Kingdom
Once you acquire British citizenship, you can freely live in the United Kingdom without any restrictions. You can stay and leave the country whenever you want. UK citizenship is not subject to any immigration restrictions, and you can live in the country totally free from immigration rules. Isn’t it the most significant advantage of British citizenship? Of course, staying in the United Kingdom without any restrictions can be a relief for so many people from other countries.
- Right to Work and Study in the UK
British citizenship provides you with the benefits of working in the country individually without sponsorship. It allows you to study in the United Kingdom without restrictions or limitations. After getting British citizenship, you do not need to get permission from the UKVI to study or work in the country.
- Right to Acquire a British Passport
You should be aware of the fact that the British passport is one of the powerful passports worldwide. It allows you to travel across 139 countries without a visa. A British passport will also enable you to travel further to seven countries with travel authorisation obtained online and 38 countries where you can apply for a visa upon arrival rather than applying before. With this passport, you can travel freely in and out of the country and can use this passport to prove your right to residency in the United Kingdom as well.
- Right to Vote in the Elections
British citizenship provides you with the right to vote in elections. It includes local and national elections and referendums; you will also have the right to stand for public office. Along with any other UK citizen, you also have the right to choose the right candidate in the UK government.
- Right to Free Healthcare
Being a British citizen, you have the authority to access free healthcare through the British national healthcare services NHS (National Health Service). Acquiring British citizenship can let you earn healthcare services at a minimal cost. The UK’s healthcare service is one of the world’s most robust and efficient systems. The British healthcare system is considered one of the best when we talk about quality and care.
- Right to Claim Public Funds
Under the benefits of British citizenship, you have the right to claim UK public funds. You will be allowed to claim income-based jobseeker’s allowance, income support, child tax credit, universal credit, working tax credit, a social fund payment, housing benefit, council tax benefit, council tax reduction, etc. It also includes another variety of benefits.
Advantages of British Citizenship Over ILR
Holding British citizenship has several advantages over holding Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) status in the United Kingdom. Some of the key advantages include the following:
- The Right to Vote in UK Elections and Stand for Public Office: British citizens have the right to vote in all UK elections and stand for public office, whereas non-British citizens with ILR status do not have these rights.
- The Ability to Hold a UK Passport: British citizens can travel on a UK passport, which can make international travel more accessible and more convenient. Non-British citizens with ILR status will have to use a different passport.
- More Secure Immigration Status: British citizenship provides a more secure immigration status than ILR, as it cannot be taken away unless certain conditions are met. ILR status, on the other hand, can only be recovered if an individual stays outside of the UK for a short time or if they are convicted of a serious crime.
- Access to Government Services and Benefits: British citizens are eligible for a broader range of government services and benefits than non-British citizens with ILR status.
- Potential Eligibility for Dual Citizenship: British citizenship may allow an individual to hold dual or multiple citizenships, which can provide additional opportunities and benefits.
Hence, if you are going to apply for dual citizenship, you must consider these potential disadvantages and weigh them against the benefits.
FAQ’s
- What are the benefits of British citizenship?
: British Citizenship provides several benefits, including the right to live, work and study in the United Kingdom without the requirement of a visa and can access to public services such as healthcare, education and welfare benefits. It also comes with the right to vote and run for public office in UK elections. You can also acquire a British passport and have the ability to sponsor your family members to join you in the United Kingdom.
2.
Can I Work and Study in the UK with British Citizenship?
: Yes, you have every right to live, work and study in the United Kingdom with British citizenship, excluding the requirement for a visa.
3. Can I Access Public Services Such as Healthcare & Education with British Citizenship?
: As a British citizen, you have the right to take advantage of public services such as healthcare and education in the United Kingdom. These two services are really affordable for British citizens.
4. Can I Vote and Run for Public Office with British Citizenship?
: As a British citizen, you have the right to vote in UK elections and run for public office as well. British Citizenship allows you to vote for your choice of candidate from the UK government panel.
5. Can I Travel Visa Free with a UK Passport?
: Once you acquire British Citizenship, you are eligible to apply for a British passport. It automatically enables visa-free travel to many countries around the world.
6. Can I Sponsor My Family Members to Join me in the UK with British Citizenship?
: After acquiring British citizenship, you have the right to sponsor your family members, who can stay with you in the United Kingdom.
7. Can I Apply for British Nationality for my Children?
: Yes, as a British citizen, you can apply for British nationality for your Children. If they are born in the United Kingdom, they will automatically be able to acquire British citizenship.
8. Can I Pass on My British Citizenship to Future Generations?
: Yes, as a British citizen, you can pass on your British citizenship to future generations.
9. How Long do I Need to Live in the UK to Apply For British Citizenship?
: To acquire British citizenship, you need to stay in the United Kingdom for five years at least and meet the eligibility criteria of the UKVI.
The post What are the Benefits of British Citizenship? appeared first on A Y & J Solicitors.