Learn About Sponsoring Immigration and Citizenship in the UK
The process of sponsoring someone to become a UK citizen is a highly complex and detailed one, which should be dealt with by legal professionals with expertise in immigration law and the British bureaucracy system.
If you are interested in sponsoring someone to become a UK citizen on a sponsorship visa, it’s important to know the steps involved and what you will have to do, as well as all your responsibilities as the sponsor of that person who wishes to become a UK citizen.
This article will provide you with information about the steps involved in sponsoring a foreigner for UK citizenship and how you can go about doing this successfully without getting into trouble with the authorities.
Guide to UK Immigration
Becoming an Immigrant in Britain is not always easy. In general, it is easier to migrate to countries like Australia or Canada than it is to immigrate to European countries such as Italy or France, but there are exceptions. What country you want to immigrate to determines what kind of visa or permit you will need.
For example, most European countries require proof that your income exceeds that of its nationals before they grant you residency status. You will also have limits on how long you can remain in your desired country after receiving your visa or permit, so make sure that meets your needs before applying.
Applying As An Applicant
You must apply to become an applicant for British Citizenship, or as it is formally known, ‘Citizenship by Naturalisation’. To be eligible to apply you will need to have held indefinite leave to remain in the United Kingdom for five years or less.
The application costs, approximately £1,330 is made up of various fees, but there are various government financial support options that can help offset these costs if applicable. You will also need to attend an interview with a British Citizen who has been approved by Her Majesty’s Government; usually at your local Home Office building.
Why Should You Consider Moving To the UK
While there are certainly challenges to living in such an expat-friendly nation, many are also positive; one of these being that it’s extremely easy to become a citizen.
Non-European citizens can follow for permanent residency after most effective five years. You can then apply for citizenship immediately thereafter (if you choose) or wait up to ten years until your passport arrives – though five is currently recommended by experts as you may need more time later on down the line. Regardless of how long you wait before applying, you must be living in Britain with permission from an immigration attorney for half of that time.
Who Needs A Sponsor?
Anyone who wants to sponsor someone else in order to bring them to the UK is expected to be able to prove that they are financially solvent. The individual must also have enough accommodation available so that their visitor doesn’t need to take up public housing. The person you’re sponsoring will also have certain legal obligations, including paying all income tax and National Insurance contributions as well as not taking on any state benefits while they’re living in Britain.
If someone breaks these guidelines, they are ruining their chances of obtaining citizenship. Make sure that you meet all requirements and have all the necessary documentation before you apply. You might also want help filling out your forms; anyone seeking advice about sponsoring or being sponsored can access free assistance from Citizens Advice.
How Do I Choose A Sponsor?
Choosing your Sponsor is important in order to secure your future residence in Britain. You will be signing an agreement to stay with them until you are granted British Citizenship, which typically happens 3 years after being granted Permanent Residence. When choosing a sponsor you should ask yourself Can I trust them? Are they reliable? Can I rely on them?
They will have control over your life during that time so it is vital that you have someone who you can live with without hassle. It is best if both parties know each other well before entering into such agreements as living together can sometimes make people act unexpectedly or otherwise change their behaviour.
How Does This Affect Me Financially?
Sponsorship of dependants is not free. You will have to pay fees (called Maintenance and Naturalisation Charges) for your application as well as for any maintenance that your family member might need during their first 5 years in the UK. These will be £1,890 per year up to a maximum amount of £6,570 if they receive public funds.
My Relative Has Accepted Me As Their Dependant, Now What Happens Next?
If you intend to sponsor someone from outside of Europe, it is likely that they will first apply for an entry clearance visa (previously known as ‘entry clearance’). This visa enables them to travel to or remain in the UK to make their application. There are a number of types of entry clearance visas depending on your relationship with your relative, the type of application you are making and where you live.
