A legal change to the way immigrants gain British citizenship will be ‘good for the community’, a Midlands solicitor has said.
Previously, British citizenship could be applied for after six years working in the UK or three years on the basis of marriage to a British citizen or permanent resident.
But under the Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009, a new concept of ‘earned citizenship’
Last year, the Home Office introduced the Points Based System for those wishing to come to work in the UK. Now it plans to extend the principle of earning points for the purpose of being granted citizenship.
It is thought that the ability under the new system to raise or lower the points threshold will provide greater flexibility in making decisions on granting citizenship and permanent residence depending upon the needs of the country and the economy at any given time.
Under the proposals, which are currently subject to a consultation exercise, an individual who has had five years temporary residency, would move into ‘probationary citizenship’
During that time, individuals will have the chance to move to British citizenship more quickly by earning points for taking an active role in the community.
Marian Dixon, head of Wright Hassall’s Business Immigration team, said the changes should help build bridges in the community and integrate immigrants into society.
“The new process is encouraging and rewarding immigrants who take an active and responsible role in the community,” Mrs Dixon said.
“For instance, if someone becomes a school governor, does local volunteer work or is active in a trade union, then, under the proposals, they will receive additional points and speed up their path to citizenship.
“This is good news for businesses because it means foreign workers will have a greater awareness of British culture and that should benefit the workplace. It will help to develop better relationships with fellow staff and ultimately benefit the company.
“Those foreign nationals who want to be a part of the British community will be able to while those who do not want to integrate will find it much more difficult to gain citizenship.”
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