Do I need to translate my birth certificate for UK citizenship?
Yes. If your birth certificate is not in English, you must provide a certified translation with your citizenship application.
UK Citizenship Guide
UK Citizenship & Naturalisation Translation Requirements
Last updated: March 2026
British citizenship — naturalisation — is the final step for most settled migrants. The application sits on Form AN. The documentation is lighter than spouse or ILR cases. Identity, marital status, and good character are the three main categories. Birth and marriage certificates not in English still need certified translations, even if you've been a UK resident for years and submitted them before.
What documents need translation for UK citizenship?
UK citizenship applications need certified translations of your birth certificate, marriage certificate (if it applies), and any identity documents not in English. Previous visa documents may also need translation if you haven't submitted them before.
Form AN asks three questions. Who you are. Your marital status. Whether you're of good character. Each translates into a small bundle of documents. Identity is usually the birth certificate plus passport. Marital status is the marriage certificate (and divorce decree if it applies). Good character pulls in any criminal-record certificates from countries you've lived in.
If you've been through an earlier UK application — initial visa or ILR — you may already have translations on file. They're still valid. UKVI does not need fresh translations as long as the original document hasn't changed. Including a clean copy with your citizenship application avoids any caseworker confusion.
- Birth certificate (mandatory)
- Marriage certificate (if married)
- Passport and identity documents
- Previous visa documentation
- Character references
- Employment or self-employment evidence
How much does citizenship translation cost?
UK citizenship translation usually costs £25–£65. That covers a birth certificate, marriage certificate, and any extra identity documents. Each page costs £12.99.
Citizenship applications usually need fewer translations than visa applications. Most applicants need only their birth certificate and marriage certificate translated — usually 2–3 pages in total.
When should I order translations for citizenship?
Order translations before completing your Form AN application. Citizenship processing takes 6+ months. Submitting a complete application with all translations helps avoid further delays.
UK citizenship processing times are currently 6–12 months. Submitting a complete application with all required translations from the start helps your application move through the system without hold-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use translations from my ILR application for citizenship?
You can refer to them. But it's better to include copies of the translations with your citizenship application for completeness.
How long does UK citizenship take?
UK citizenship applications currently take 6–12 months to process. Having all translations ready helps avoid extra delays.
Do I need a Life in the UK test for citizenship?
Yes. You must have passed the Life in the UK test and meet the English language requirement. The test certificate is in English and does not need translation.
What is the citizenship ceremony?
After approval, you attend a citizenship ceremony where you pledge allegiance. You receive your certificate of British citizenship at the ceremony.
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