BRITISH NATIONALITY
Acquiring British citizenship and nationality rights in the Isle of Man
In this section
British nationality
For many people, obtaining a British passport is the end of their immigration journey and marks the culmination of a long process of adapting to life in the Isle of Man.
Kinley Legal regularly assists clients who have spent a period of residence in the Isle of Man on consolidating their rights by acquisition of British nationality.
The main category of British nationality in the Isle of Man is British citizenship, which can be applied for following a certain number of years’ legal residence. The residence period can range from 5 to 11 years, depending on immigration history.
British citizenship is “full” citizenship. It is exactly the same category of nationality that natives of the Isle of Man and United Kingdom hold. This is a reflection of the very close links between the two countries. Citizens can choose to hold either United Kingdom passports or Isle of Man passports.
British citizenship and British ancestry
Your options will depend on your family’s circumstances. It may be possible to register for British citizenship and obtain a British passport directly, without any need to spend time living in the Isle of Man or UK.
For instance, a person born in South Africa to a parent who was British-born but emigrated to South Africa before her birth is likely to be able to register as a British citizen by descent.
Nationality applications can often take considerably longer for the authorities to process than immigration applications. Therefore, in many cases we recommend first obtaining a visa, such as the British ancestry visa. This enables you to move to the Isle of Man on your existing citizenship without undue delay. Once you arrive, Kinley Legal can advise you on the merits of applying for British citizenship.
Common Questions
Can I get Manx citizenship?
The Isle of Man currently has its own British passport variant, but it does not have its own citizenship. Isle of Man passport holders are generally British citizens.
Can I hold dual or multiple citizenship, including British citizenship?
British law allows dual or multiple citizenship, but different countries have different laws, and not all allow dual or multiple citizenship. We can help you check before you acquire British citizenship if this is likely to affect your existing rights overseas.
Can you be my referee for my naturalisation or registration application?
We are unfortunately not permitted to act as your referee if we have advised you on your naturalisation or registration application.
How long does it take?
Nationality applications involve rigorous checks being carried out in both the Isle of Man and UK, meaning that applications can often take many months.
Do they keep my foreign passport during the whole process?
You can normally obtain return of your passport early in the process, and it should not be required to be held long term.
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