As of 10 February 2025, the good character requirement for British nationality applications has been updated, introducing stricter rules regarding illegal entry into the UK.

What is the UK good character requirement?

The good character requirement is a key criterion for individuals applying for British citizenship. It assesses whether an applicant has respected UK laws and societal values. Factors considered include criminal history, financial responsibility, honesty, immigration compliance, and national security concerns. Applicants with serious convictions, financial fraud, deception, or illegal entry may be refused citizenship.

What changed after 10 February 2025?

• Before 10 February 2025: Applicants who had entered the UK illegally in the past could still be considered for citizenship, depending on their overall character, length of residence, and other mitigating factors.

• After 10 February 2025: Applications made after this date will "normally" be refused if the applicant has a history of illegal entry, regardless of when the illegal entry occurred.

This means that even if a person entered the UK illegally many years ago, they will likely be refused citizenship if they apply after 10 February 2025.

Here are the new parts added to the guidance:

Any person applying for citizenship from 10 February 2025, who previously entered the UK illegally will normally be refused, regardless of the time that has passed since the illegal entry took place.

Any person applying for citizenship before 10 February 2025 where illegal entry is a factor, will continue to have their application reviewed to determine whether that immigration breach should be disregarded for the purpose of the character assessment.

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Arriving without a required valid entry clearance or electronic travel authorisation, having made a dangerous journey

A person who applies for citizenship from 10 February 2025 who has previously arrived without a required valid entry clearance or electronic travel authorisation, having made a dangerous journey will normally be refused citizenship.

A dangerous journey includes, but is not limited to, travelling by small boat or concealed in a vehicle or other conveyance. It does not include, for example, arrival as a passenger with a commercial airline.

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Who will be affected?

• Anyone who has entered the UK illegally, at any time, and applies for citizenship on or after 10 February 2025.

• Individuals who crossed the border without proper documentation, used false documents, or evaded immigration control when entering the UK.

• Asylum seekers and refugees may still have some protection under international law, but each case will be assessed individually.

Individuals with past illegal entry records may need legal assistance to explore other options for regularization, such as long-term residency claims or human rights arguments.

The post-10 February 2025 policy shift represents a major tightening of the UK’s nationality rules. Illegal entry will now be a stronger ground for refusal, making it more difficult for individuals with past immigration violations to obtain British citizenship.