Applying for British citizenship can be a daunting process, especially when it comes to finding referees. Currently, anyone seeking citizenship must provide two referees who can confirm their identity and state that they know of no reason why the applicant should not be granted citizenship. However, this requirement can be a significant hurdle for many applicants.
What Is the Referee Requirement?
To act as a referee, individuals must meet specific criteria. They cannot be just anyone; they must be a professional person, such as a barrister, doctor, or teacher, who has known the applicant for a certain period. This can be a challenge for many people, especially those who may not have strong community ties or who have recently moved to the UK.
A Requirement from a Different Era
The referee requirement dates back to a time long before modern technology made verifying identity easier. In the past, people lived simpler lives, and the process of proving who you are was much less complicated. Today, however, the landscape has changed dramatically.
When someone applies for indefinite leave to remain, they undergo multiple identity checks, including biometric scans, in their home country and again in the UK. By the time they reach the naturalisation stage, they have already provided their biometrics several times. Given these extensive measures, it seems outdated to still require referees to confirm an applicant’s identity.
The Challenge of Finding Referees
For many applicants, finding suitable referees can be frustrating and stressful. Not everyone has access to professionals who meet the criteria. Some may feel uncomfortable asking someone they don’t know well to vouch for them. Additionally, there is no obligation for those approached to provide a reason if they decline to act as a referee, which can leave applicants in a difficult position.
The Case for Change
Given the rigorous identity checks already in place, it’s time to reconsider the necessity of the referee requirement. The current system can create unnecessary barriers for those seeking to become British citizens. Removing this requirement could simplify the application process and make it more accessible to a broader range of people.
The referee requirement for British citizenship applications is an outdated practice that does not reflect the realities of today’s identity verification processes. By scrapping this requirement, we can make the path to citizenship more inclusive and less daunting for applicants. It’s time to modernize the citizenship application process to better serve those who wish to call the UK their home.
At Kash Legal Services, we believe in making the process of applying for citizenship as straightforward as possible. Let’s work together to advocate for a fairer system that recognizes the complexities of modern life.