If you’re under 18 years old and want to apply for British citizenship, you might not have to pay the application fee. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you understand how it works:

What is a Fee Waiver?

A fee waiver means you can apply to get the citizenship application fee for free if you qualify.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for a fee waiver if you:

  • Are under 18 years old.
  • Are eligible for British citizenship. You might be eligible if one of your parents made the UK their home and did one of the following after you were born:
    • Became a British citizen.
    • Got indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
    • Got settled status (which is like indefinite leave to remain under the EU Settlement Scheme).
    • Got indefinite leave to enter the UK.
    • Got permanent residence status.

When Can You Apply?

You can apply for a fee waiver if:

  • You and your parent or guardian cannot pay the fee because:
    • You don’t have a place to live and can’t afford one.
    • You can’t pay for basic needs like food and heating.
    • After paying for where you live and other basic needs, you don’t have enough money left for the fee.
    • Paying the fee would mean you can’t take care of a child’s needs.

Important Notes:

  • If you’re being looked after by a local authority, you should not apply for a fee waiver. Instead, you’ll provide evidence of this when you apply for citizenship, and your application will be free.

How to Apply for a Fee Waiver

You can apply for a fee waiver in two ways: online or by post.

Online Application:

  1. Start the Online Application: You can fill out the fee waiver application online.
  2. Prove Your Identity: You’ll need to upload a copy of your identity document, like:
    • Passport
    • National identity card
    • Biometric residence permit (BRP)
  3. Provide Financial Information: You’ll also need to share details about your money situation, like:
    • Bank statements
    • Letters showing financial support from family or local authorities
    • Proof you receive public funds
    • Payslips showing household earnings
    • Rent or other bills showing household expenses
  4. Get Confirmation: After applying, you’ll get an email confirming your application.

If You’re Successful:

If your application is approved, you will receive an email or letter with a special code called a token. You will need this code when you apply for citizenship.

By Post Application:

If you prefer or if you’re from Guernsey or Jersey, you must apply by post:

  1. Fill in a Child Citizenship Fee Waiver Request Form.
  2. Send it to the address provided on the form.

After Applying:

  • If you applied online and got a fee waiver approval, don’t forget to also apply for citizenship online.
  • If you can’t do both online, send your citizenship application by post.

Final Steps

Once you have your fee waiver approved, you can proceed to apply for British citizenship without worrying about the fee if you are eligible.

Now, you’re ready to start your application process! Good luck!