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Got ILR on skilled work visa (Tier 2). Want to immediately apply for Naturalization

Posted: Wed Aug 05, 2026 3:40 pm
by mrjamsh
Hi everyone,

I'm looking for people who have gone through this specific situation.

I obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) through the Skilled Worker (formerly Tier 2) route and I'm married to a British citizen.

Based on the official GOV.UK guidance, my understanding is that a spouse of a British citizen can apply for British citizenship by naturalisation immediately after obtaining ILR, regardless of the immigration route used to obtain ILR. GOV.UK naturalisation eligibility for spouses of British citizens

However, I've received conflicting advice from different immigration solicitors. Some say I can apply immediately, while others insist that because my ILR was granted under the Skilled Worker route, I must wait 12 months before applying.

I looking for the opinions of professionals and I'm hoping to hear from people who have personally or :

obtained ILR through the Skilled Worker/Tier 2 route, and

applied for naturalisation immediately because they were married to a British citizen.

If you've been through this process yourself (or know someone who has), I'd really appreciate hearing about your experience and whether your application was successful.

Thanks in advance!

Re: Got ILR on skilled work visa (Tier 2). Want to immediately apply for Naturalization

Posted: Wed Aug 05, 2026 4:25 pm
by CR001
Your route to ILR is completely irrelevant. Solicitors talking absolute rubbish.

The rule is simple, you can apply for citizenship immediately if you are married to a British citizen AND you meet all the requirements.

Nothing complicated at all!!

Re: Got ILR on skilled work visa (Tier 2). Want to immediately apply for Naturalization

Posted: Wed Aug 05, 2026 5:25 pm
by contorted_svy
mrjamsh wrote:
Wed Aug 05, 2026 3:40 pm
Hi everyone,

I'm looking for people who have gone through this specific situation.

I obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) through the Skilled Worker (formerly Tier 2) route and I'm married to a British citizen.

Based on the official GOV.UK guidance, my understanding is that a spouse of a British citizen can apply for British citizenship by naturalisation immediately after obtaining ILR, regardless of the immigration route used to obtain ILR. GOV.UK naturalisation eligibility for spouses of British citizens

However, I've received conflicting advice from different immigration solicitors. Some say I can apply immediately, while others insist that because my ILR was granted under the Skilled Worker route, I must wait 12 months before applying.

I looking for the opinions of professionals and I'm hoping to hear from people who have personally or :

obtained ILR through the Skilled Worker/Tier 2 route, and

applied for naturalisation immediately because they were married to a British citizen.

If you've been through this process yourself (or know someone who has), I'd really appreciate hearing about your experience and whether your application was successful.

Thanks in advance!

You can apply as you are married to a British citizen. The solicitor you spoke to doesn't know the rules.