Applying for citizenship then moving abroad

[gingerWIce]

Hello, I plan to apply for BC but then go travelling immediately after it’s granted and quite likely move to NZ (country of birth) with my British partner and British kids, hopefully forever…. But if not forever then I’d like to be able to come back…. Free from the visa chaos of my earlier years in the UK.

My question is : will I be caught out having not stayed the full year after being granted BC?

The back story in case relevant.

2001 entered on working holiday visa
2003 had application for partner visa denied. Was deported back to NZ. Appealed the decision and eventually was allowed back to uk on partner visa
2004 unmarried partner visa (partner also from NZ was on Highly skilled migrant visa at the time)
2009 I think an extension for that visa was given
2010 applied for ILR. Which was granted.
Have therefore lived here for 13 years on ILR and 8-9 years on other visas.

Have owned houses had kids. Lived a life and paid tax etc for all of those years.

Interested to know whether it’s worth it. Just want to ensure I have a re-entry plan if needed. Or to come back in old age and hang with my kids in case they study here when older etc.

Anyone have any thoughts? Don’t want to get in unnecessary bother with HO but also feel it’s simpler just to sort BC now…. Not sure what grounds I’d have for return if my partner were to die unexpectedly for example….

[CR001]

My question is : will I be caught out having not stayed the full year after being granted BC?

Why do think there is even such a requirement? There is not.

I suggest you do the process, ceremony (if approved) and get your british passport before leaving or moving out of the UK.

[gingerWIce]

I thought it would seem dishonest as my current future intention, in the short term at least is to not be living in the uk. Perhaps I’m mistaken?

I’m basically just being prepared in case life abroad does not work out.

[alterhase58]

Regarding returning to the UK, as a citizen you can come and go without hindrance or formalities.
The only restriction to note is that on arrival you may not automatically or immediately qualify for some public services or benefits, due to not being habitually resident.