The UK government has published official guidance detailing strict procedures for foreign spouses who obtain British citizenship. According to the guidance, newly naturalised citizens who applied as a spouse of a British national must destroy and return their biometric residence permit (BRP) to the Home Office within five working days of receiving their certificate of British citizenship. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to £1,000.
How to Return the BRP
The instructions specify how the card must be sent back. The holder must cut the BRP into four pieces, place the fragments inside a windowless envelope, and include a handwritten note confirming the reason for the return. The note should contain the individual's full name, date of birth, and the document number printed on the front of the card.
The envelope should be posted to: Naturalisation BRP Returns, PO Box 195, Bristol, BS20 1BT. Anyone who fails to return the permit within the five-working-day window faces a financial penalty of up to £1,000.
Changes After Gaining Citizenship
Beyond the BRP requirement, the guidance also addresses travel. Once a newly naturalised citizen obtains a British passport, they are required to use it when entering the United Kingdom. Neither the BRP nor the certificate of British citizenship is accepted as a valid travel document for entry. For those who choose not to apply for a British passport, the government advises applying for a certificate of entitlement as an alternative.
Application Timeline and Additional Requirements
The guidance also notes that applicants should expect a decision on their citizenship application within six months. However, some cases may take longer, with the Home Office committing to notify applicants before that threshold is reached. Those whose personal circumstances change during the application period, including a change of address, marriage, or arrest, are advised to contact UK Visas and Immigration directly at nationalityenquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk. In some instances, applicants may also be invited to attend an interview, which must be conducted without the assistance of an interpreter.
