The UK government has introduced further stringent amendments to the British Nationality Act 1981, which came into effect in February 2025. These changes primarily target individuals who have entered the UK illegally, significantly restricting their eligibility for British citizenship and naturalisation. The new policy reinforces the Illegal Migration Act 2023, ensuring that those who entered unlawfully will face permanent barriers to obtaining British nationality (Home Office, 2025).
Under the latest guidance, individuals who have entered the UK illegally will “normally” be refused British citizenship, irrespective of how much time has passed since their arrival. Previously, individuals who had lived in the UK for ten years and met all other criteria, including the ‘good character’ requirement, could apply for naturalisation. However, this
update has taken a stricter stance, making it nearly impossible for anyone with an irregular entry history to secure British nationality (Drummond Miller, 2025).
The Home Office has justified these changes as part of broader efforts to deter illegal immigration and maintain the integrity of the UK’s immigration system. According to government statements, reinforcing consequences for unlawful entry will discourage individuals from taking dangerous and irregular migration routes (UK Government, 2025). This
change particularly affects asylum seekers and those who fled conflict zones without obtaining formal UK entry clearance beforehand.
Critics argue that the revised policy violates international refugee protections, particularly the 1951 Refugee Convention, which prohibits penalising asylum seekers based on their mode of entry. Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International and the United Nations Refugee Agency, warn that these measures unfairly punish individuals who may have had no choice but to enter the UK irregularly (The Guardian, 2025).
Additionally, the 2025 amendment raises concerns over integration efforts, as many long term UK residents will now face indefinite barriers to citizenship. Even those who have built strong ties within British society, including individuals with families, businesses, or established careers, will be denied a pathway to naturalisation due to their previous immigration history. The ruling applies retroactively, meaning that individuals who entered unlawfully at any point in the past are affected, regardless of subsequent legal status (Financial Times, 2025).
The impact of this policy extends beyond migrants themselves; employers, landlords, and legal representatives must navigate an increasingly complex immigration framework, ensuring that individuals affected by these restrictions remain compliant with visa and residency requirements. Many affected individuals may now have no option but to seek alternative visa routes, judicial review claims, or human rights-based appeals to remain in the UK legally (BBC News, 2025).
For individuals impacted by the February 2025 nationality reforms, it is crucial to seek expert legal guidance. The evolving legal landscape requires careful navigation to explore alternative routes, from long residence applications to discretionary leave to remain claims. As an immigration law firm, we urge all those affected to consult with legal professionals to assess their options and ensure compliance with the new regulations.
If you require assistance in understanding your rights under the Nationality Act 2025, contact our immigration lawyers today for expert guidance.
References
BBC News, 2025. UK Tightens Citizenship Rules for Illegal Entrants. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-immigration
Drummond Miller LLP, 2025. British Citizenship and the ‘Good Character’ Requirement: Key Updates for 2025. [online] Available at: https://www.drummondmiller.co.uk/news/british citizenship-and-the-good-character-requirement-key-updates-for-2025/
Financial Times, 2025. Refugees who arrive in UK via irregular routes to be barred from claiming citizenship. [online] Available at: https://www.ft.com/content/3c0db82d-a17d-4fa5- 8510-f3bee2b4590a
Home Office, 2025. Nationality Act Amendments and Immigration Policy Update. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications
The Guardian, 2025. The Observer view: Change to UK citizenship rule is cruel and misjudged. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/feb/15/the observer-view-change-to-uk-citizenship-rule-is-cruel-and-misjudged
UK Government, 2025. Illegal Migration Act: Key Provisions and Enforcement Mechanisms. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/illegal-migration
United Nations Refugee Agency, 2025. Legal Implications of UK’s Asylum Policy Changes. [online] Available at: https://www.unhcr.org
