Citizenship and Absences Due to Master's Degree Abroad
Hi everyone,
I’m trying to understand whether I may still qualify for British citizenship by naturalisation, or whether my absences would make the application too risky.
I have been living and working in the UK since 2018 and hold ILR since 2023. Over the past 5 years, I estimate that I have around 510 days of absences from the UK. A significant part of this was because I was completing a Master’s degree abroad (which is unfortunately way more affordable than doing it in the UK). The degree is related to my professional work too. I have otherwise maintained my life in the UK, including employment (wfh) here and a mortgage.
I understand that the usual absence limit for naturalisation is 450 days in the 5-year qualifying period, and that absences above this will rely on discretion. I’m trying to get any ideas on how likely it is that discretion would be considered, where the absences were mainly for study reasons.
Any advices? And if yes, should I consider applying with a solicitor?
Thank you so much!