Stricter Good Character Rules: How Illegal Entry and Dangerous Journeys Could Block Your Path

Thousands of people hoping to become British citizens may now face rejection due to strict new immigration rules introduced by the Home Office on 10 February 2025. The changes mark a significant shift in how illegal entry to the UK is assessed, particularly affecting refugees and others who may have entered the country without proper documentation. Under the updated good character requirements, these individuals could be barred from citizenship, regardless of their circumstances or contributions to society.

Under the British Nationality Act 1981, anyone applying for naturalisation as a British citizen must demonstrate that they are of “good character.” The Home Office’s guidance outlines the factors considered when making this determination. The latest update, however, introduces stricter criteria that could exclude a large number of applicants, especially those who have sought refuge in the UK after dangerous journeys.

The most notable change concerns illegal entry. The updated guidance now states:

“Any person applying for citizenship from 10 February 2025, who previously entered the UK illegally will normally be refused, regardless of the time that has passed since the illegal entry took place.”

This represents a significant departure from the previous rules, which allowed for more leniency if the illegal entry occurred more than ten years prior to the application.

Additionally, a new section has been added to page 51 of the guidance, focusing on individuals who arrived without the required valid entry clearance or electronic travel authorisation after making a “dangerous journey.” The guidance specifies:

“A person who applies for citizenship from 10 February 2025 who has previously arrived without a required valid entry clearance or electronic travel authorisation, having made a dangerous journey will normally be refused citizenship. A dangerous journey includes, but is not limited to, travelling by small boat or concealed in a vehicle or other conveyance. It does not include, for example, arrival as a passenger with a commercial airline.”

This change is likely to disproportionately affect refugees, many of whom have no choice but to undertake hazardous journeys to reach safety. For example, those who have crossed the Channel in small boats or hidden in lorries to escape war, persecution, or other life-threatening situations may now face challenging barriers to becoming British citizens.

“The updated guidance raises serious concerns about fairness and accessibility in the naturalisation process. For many, the journey to the UK is a matter of survival, not choice. By categorising such journeys as grounds for refusal, the Home Office risks penalising individuals who have already endured significant hardship, particularly under the stricter good character requirements.

Moreover, the changes could create a two-tier system. Those who applied for naturalisation before 10 February 2025 will be assessed under the old rules, while anyone applying after that date will face the stricter good character criteria. This could lead to a rush of applications from individuals seeking to secure their status before the new rules take full effect.

While the government has framed these changes as part of its efforts to maintain the integrity of the immigration system, critics argue that they risk undermining the UK’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals. Refugees often have no alternative but to enter the country irregularly and penalising them under stricter good character requirements could be seen as contrary to international human rights principles.

The updated guidance also raises questions about the long-term integration of individuals who have built their lives in the UK. Denying them citizenship based on the new good character criteria could leave them in a state of limbo, unable to fully participate in society or access the rights and opportunities that come with British citizenship.

The Home Office’s updated good character guidance represents a significant tightening of the rules around naturalisation, particularly for those who have entered the UK illegally or after dangerous journeys. While the government may view these changes as necessary for maintaining control over immigration, they risk excluding some of the most vulnerable individuals from the chance to build a secure future in the UK.

For anyone affected by these new rules, seeking professional advice is essential. The road to citizenship has undoubtedly become more challenging under the updated good character requirements, but with the right support, it is not impossible. As the UK continues to grapple with issues of immigration and integration, the impact of these changes will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. With immigration policies becoming stricter, those affected must act quickly to understand their rights and options. Seeking expert guidance can make all the difference in securing a future in the UK.