Post-Brexit: Rise in British Nationals Renouncing UK Citizenship

The number of British nationals giving up their UK citizenship has increased since Brexit.

The data obtained by the Independent has shown that the number of people renouncing UK citizenship increased by 30 percent in 2021 compared to 2020 and six times more than a decade ago when only about 140 decided to take such a decision.

Overall 6,507 people have applied to renounce their UK citizenship between 2011 and 2021.

Pragmatic Reasons For Renouncing UK Citizenship

The reasons behind renouncing vary from person to person however the most common reason is when someone wants to take up citizenship in another country which, unlike the UK, restricts or bans dual nationality.

According to experts, most of the EU countries issue residency permits for British passport holders however the residency permit does not allow them to enjoy full rights, such as voting thus some made the hard decision to give up their British passports.

Moreover, those who wish to be more competitive in the EU labour market oftentimes make the choice to give up their UK citizenship as the EU passport gives them more freedom in doing so.

Ramifications Of Renouncing UK Citizenship

Renouncing UK citizenship is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly.

Giving up your British passport means giving up your right to move freely back to the UK, needing a visa to stay in the country, and losing the right to vote.

Renouncing your citizenship or status only affects you and not any other members of your family nonetheless it could affect the status of any children you have in the future.

But all is not lost as you can regain your UK citizenship however the reason (or reasons) for renouncing your UK citizenship will ultimately determine whether you are successful in regaining it. There is no automatic way to regain your citizenship and in most cases, it takes between 3 and 6 months to receive a decision on an application.

What are your thoughts on this issue? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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