Retaining Passport during application

[northcave]

Hello.

In September I will have had my ILR for 1 year. I wish to apply for my citizenship based on 10 years + 1 year ILR.

I understand that I can retain my passport during the application process and travel for work / pleasure. I understand this can be done either by making the application via NCS service at your local council or by a certified copy (commissioner for oaths).

Is one of those likely to take longer than the other or are both routes equally fine? Is one more recommended than the other?

Many thanks.

[chocolateorange88]

If you are looking to travel then going through NCS is the option for you. That way you get to keep all your original documents . Theres no difference in processing time either. We chose NCS as we know in October we want to go abroad on holiday.

[northcave]

Many thanks. Could you summarise the application process for me please? If I book an appointment with the NCS and I take all the relavent documents below, what else do I need to do if anything?

- Completed citizenship application form.
- Original copy of your successful ‘Life in the UK’ test certificate. (Naturalisation only)
- All the necessary documents as explained in the application form guideline notes.

[noajthan]

Many thanks. Could you summarise the application process for me please? If I book an appointment with the NCS and I take all the relavent documents below, what else do I need to do if anything?

- Completed citizenship application form.
- Original copy of your successful ‘Life in the UK’ test certificate. (Naturalisation only)
- All the necessary documents as explained in the application form guideline notes.

Your local NCS will have a website summarising the process & requirements;
this will be over & above the guidance available on the Gov UK website.