The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has published new AN policy guidance, which should be read in conjunction with the requirements pursuant to section 6(1) or section 6(2) of the 1981 British Nationality Act.
An important change to the current system is the requirement for the Application to return the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) once naturalised as a British Citizen, and at the latest, within 5 days of the date of the Citizenship ceremony.
The BRP will need to be sent to the following address: Freepost RRYX-GLYU-GXHZ, Returns Unit, PO, Box 163, Bristol, BS20 1AB.
The Applicant is required to cut the BRP and return it in a windowless plain envelope, along with a covering letter explaining the reason for return or an explanation for not returning the BRP.
If there is a failure to return the BRP or notify the UKVI of the reasons for not doing so, the Secretary of State may impose a penalty fine of up to £1,000.
Should you wish to travel to and from the UK after being granted citizenship, you must either apply for a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement to the right of abode, which would be placed in your existing passport.
Please do not hesitate to contact us should you with to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain/Naturalisation or to discuss your citizenship options.