Citizenship - Armed Forces

Armed Forces Route to British Citizenship


Honouring your service with the security of British nationality.


Who This Is For

This service is for individuals who are serving or have served in the British Armed Forces— including the Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force — and wish to apply for British citizenship.


This includes:

  • Commonwealth citizens serving in the UK armed forces

  • Veterans and those recently discharged

  • Family members(spouses, partners, and children) of armed forces personnel

  • Individuals applying under the Armed Forces (ARF) route as detailed in Appendix Armed Forces of the Immigration Rules


If you are currently serving, have completed your qualifying period of service, or believe your time in uniform should count towards citizenship, we can guide you through the process.


What We Help With

  • Naturalisation applications under the Armed Forces rules

  • Establishing exemption from ILR and Life in the UK Test (where applicable)

  • Confirming time spent in service meets the residence requirements

  • Advising on dual nationality and Commonwealth rights

  • Supporting spouses, children, or dependants with linked applications

  • Guidance on continuous residence, good character, and evidence of service


Key Scenarios

       ✅ You’re a Commonwealth citizen who has served for at least 5 years in the UK armed forces
       ✅ You have been honourably discharged and wish to apply without first holding Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
       ✅ You or your child were born abroad while you were serving
       ✅ You’re unsure if your service exempts you from the usual Life in the UK test or ILR requirements
       ✅ You want to apply for citizenship for your partner or dependent child who joined you in the UK
       ✅ You’ve left the armed forces but are still within your eligibility window to apply


How We Help

  • Assess your eligibility under the Armed Forces rules and general naturalisation requirements

  • Confirm whether exemptions apply to your case (e.g. ILR or Life in the UK test not required)

  • Gather evidence from military records, discharge paperwork, or commanding officers

  • Complete and submit your application for naturalisation with supporting documents

  • Assist your family members with any linked applications under Appendix Armed Forces

  • Provide tailored advice on maintaining dual nationality or renouncing other citizenships if required


Why This Route Matters

The UK government recognises the contribution of armed forces personnel to the nation. Special provisions exist for military applicants, including exemptions from immigration requirements that apply to most other routes. Many eligible applicants aren’t aware they can apply without ILR, or that time in service counts toward residence.


Our service is designed to honour your commitment by helping you and your family secure the benefits and recognition of British citizenship.


Ready to Apply?

Whether you’re currently serving or already transitioned to civilian life, Clear Visa is here to support your journey from service to citizenship. We’ll help you understand the law, prepare your application, and guide you every step of the way.


You’ve served Britain — now let us help Britain serve you.