Naturalisation

[Naailah Booly]

I wanted to know my eligibility to apply for citizenship as I have been overseas for more than 450 days due to travel restrictions as a result of Covid pandemic. To be precise, I have been overseas for 702 days.

[CULLINAN]

I wanted to know my eligibility to apply for citizenship as I have been overseas for more than 450 days due to travel restrictions as a result of Covid pandemic. To be precise, I have been overseas for 702 days.

Page 16 onwards:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.u ... .0-ext.pdf

Note, in your case Naturalisation is a privilege not a right unlike for example someone born in UK to a settled parent etc.

The updated Nationality guidance does take pandemic into consideration now, however, it is upon discretion. You may have to prove why you were unable to return for such a long time with strong evidence.

Ideal scenario would be to apply when you meet the requirements. No one can answer yes or no to your question as it is CW’s discretion. You may want to try your luck and risk it giving strong explanation and evidence relying on official guidance. However, if refused you will loose the fees but you can still apply again when you meet all requirements in this case.