What Is Form MN1?
Form MN1 is used to apply for British citizenship for children under 18 years of age who qualify for registration as British citizens. It is typically used when a child is not automatically British at birth but may be eligible through a parent’s citizenship, settled status, or long-term residence in the UK.
Common circumstances where Form MN1 applies include:
- Children born in the UK to parents who later obtained British citizenship or settled status.
- Children born abroad to British citizen parents.
- Children who have lived in the UK continuously for ten years.
Registration under Form MN1 ensures that a child is granted British citizenship and the associated legal rights.
Who Is Eligible to Use Form MN1?
Eligibility depends on the child’s birthplace, parental citizenship, and immigration status.
Main Eligibility Categories
- Children Born in the UK to Non-British Parents
- Eligible if either parent has since become a British citizen or obtained settled status (such as indefinite leave to remain or permanent residence).
- Children Born Outside the UK
- Eligible if at least one parent is a British citizen by descent, naturalisation, or has settled status in the UK.
- Children with Ten Years of Continuous Residence
- Eligible if the child was born in the UK and has lived there continuously for the first ten years of life, regardless of the parents’ immigration status.
Each category has specific conditions. It is advisable to review the child’s individual circumstances or seek legal advice before applying.
Required Documents for Form MN1
A successful application depends on providing complete and accurate documentation.
Core Documents
- Child’s Birth Certificate showing both parents’ names.
- Child’s Passport or Travel Document to confirm nationality and identity.
- Proof of Residence (such as school letters, medical records, or utility bills) if applicable.
- Parents’ Proof of British Citizenship or Settled Status, such as a biometric residence permit, naturalisation certificate, or Home Office confirmation letter.
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- Parents’ Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate
- Parents’ Naturalisation Certificates
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Adoption or Guardianship Papers, if relevant
Documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation. Original documents are preferred, but certified copies may be accepted.
How to Complete Form MN1
Step 1: Gather All Required Information
Before starting the form, collect:
- Child’s full name, date of birth, and place of birth.
- Parents’ full names, nationalities, and immigration statuses.
- Dates of entry into the UK, if relevant.
- Records of absences from the UK, if applying under the residence category.
Step 2: Access and Complete the Form
The official Form MN1 is available on the UK Government website. It can be completed online or printed and submitted by post.
Sections Overview:
- Section 1 – Child’s Details: Full name, date of birth, nationality, and address.
- Section 2 – Parents’ Details: Citizenship status, nationality, and contact information.
- Section 3 – Residence History: Required for applications based on ten years’ residence.
- Section 4 – Consent and Declaration: Signed consent from parents or legal guardians.
- Section 5 – Referees and Identity Confirmation: Details and signatures of two referees who can verify the child’s identity.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
The current Form MN1 fee is £1,012, with an additional £19.20 biometric enrolment fee where applicable.
The fee is non-refundable, even if the application is unsuccessful.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Applications can be submitted:
- Online, through the official UK Government portal, or
- By post, following the instructions provided on the form.
Online submission is recommended for faster processing and easier tracking.
Step 5: Attend a Biometric Appointment
In some cases, the child must attend a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
Fingerprints and a digital photograph will be collected as part of the identification process.
Processing Time for Form MN1
The average processing time for MN1 applications is two to six months. This can vary depending on case complexity, supporting documents, and Home Office workload.
Referees for Form MN1 Applications
Applicants must provide two referees who can confirm the child’s identity.
Referee Requirements
- Professional Referee – must be a professional such as a teacher, doctor, social worker, or accountant, who has known the child for at least three years.
- British Citizen Referee – must be a British citizen aged 25 or older, who has also known the child for at least three years.
Referees cannot be related to the child or parents, cannot be involved in the application, and cannot be employed by the Home Office.
Tips for a Successful Form MN1 Application
- Ensure Accuracy: Double-check all personal details and spelling on the form.
- Provide Clear Documentation: Submit original documents or certified copies that are easy to verify.
- Select Suitable Referees: Confirm that referees meet all criteria and complete their sections correctly.
- Keep Copies: Retain a full copy of the application and all supporting materials for your records.
- Track Progress: If applying online, keep your reference number to check updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Form MN1 be submitted online?
Yes. Most parents submit Form MN1 online via the official UK Government website.
What happens if my application is refused?
You may request an administrative review or reapply if your circumstances change. There is no formal right of appeal for MN1 applications.
Is the Form MN1 fee refundable?
No. The fee is non-refundable, even if the application is declined.
Do both parents need to consent to the application?
Yes, unless one parent has sole legal responsibility for the child.
How long does it take to receive a decision?
Decisions are typically made within two to six months, depending on the case.
Conclusion
Completing Form MN1 is an essential step in securing British citizenship for a child. By carefully checking eligibility, submitting the correct documents, and ensuring the accuracy of all information, parents can improve the likelihood of a successful outcome.
If your case is complex or involves unusual circumstances, it is advisable to seek professional legal guidance before submitting the application.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.