ILR vs British citizenship: which should you get?
Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) lets you stay in the UK with no time limit, but British citizenship gives you a passport, the vote, and a status that can't lapse. Here's how they compare.
| ILR (settlement) | British citizenship | |
|---|---|---|
| British passport | — | |
| Vote in general elections | — | |
| Can the status lapse? | Yes — long absences can end it | No |
| Travel in and out freely | Within absence limits | Unrestricted |
| Dual nationality | N/A | UK allows it (check your country) |
| Life in the UK test | Required | Already passed for ILR |
| When you can apply | After your qualifying period | Usually 12 months after ILR |
| Home Office fee | ILR fee | Naturalisation fee + ceremony |
Should you stop at ILR or naturalise?
ILR is enough if you mainly want to live and work in the UK indefinitely. But it can be lost if you spend too long outside the UK, and it doesn't give you a passport or the right to vote in general elections. Citizenship removes those limits permanently.
Most people treat ILR as the step before citizenship: hold ILR for 12 months (or apply at the same time if you're married to a British citizen), then naturalise. You usually only take the Life in the UK test once — the pass carries over from ILR to your citizenship application.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I lose my ILR?
- Yes. ILR generally lapses if you spend more than two continuous years outside the UK (longer for some statuses). British citizenship, once granted, cannot lapse this way.
- Do I need to retake the Life in the UK test for citizenship?
- Usually no. If you passed the test for your ILR application, the same pass counts for naturalisation.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules change — always check current guidance on GOV.UK or with a regulated OISC adviser or immigration solicitor for your specific case.
Last checked against GOV.UK guidance: 17 June 2026.
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