The requirement for the passing of the Life in the United Kingdom Test started only in 2005. Thus, there were other reasons for refusals of citizenship in force prior to this requirement. This change became necessary to attain a more effective integration among its populace through the language and knowledge of culture and tradition.

The reasons for refusals are:

1. Incomplete applications of the candidate for citizenship.

This is the highest reason for refusal in in 2006. In the 2012 statistical data, this accounts for ten percent (10%) of refusals. As there are many forms of citizenship in the United Kingdom, there can be as much different forms and requirements to be complied with.

2. Parent of the applicant had been found to be not a British citizen.

This is the major refusal reason in 2007 and accounts for eight per cent (8%) refusals in 2012. It would be best that prior to application, advice should be requested from the Immigration Office with full disclosure. In cases of children born of wedlock where parents have different citizenships, the citizenship of the mother prevails.

3. Applicants are not of good character.

In 2009, majority of refusals were due to this reason and accounts for thirty seven per cent (37%) refusals in 2012. This is the highest cause of refusal for the year which includes the applicant’s criminal history, deportation order and travel ban.

This also happens when the exclusion of the applicant is conducive to public good especially when the applicant is under suspicion or is a threat to national security. This is understandable as each country seeks to have law abiding citizens.

4. Delay in replying to inquiries from the United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA).

This is the second major reason for refusal in 2007, next to the reason of a parent not a British citizen. However, this accounts for only five per cent (5%) of refusal in 2012. Such delay creates an impression to the UKBA of the applicant’s lack of interest and failure to cooperate.

5. Residence

This is the major cause of refusal in 2004. It is also the second highest cause of refusal in 2012 at thirty per cent (32%). The required residency in the United Kingdom prior to application for naturalization or citizenship is five years plus one year as a settled resident for non-EEA/Swiss national. The last year requirement starts upon approval, not upon request. This is the most common reason for not meeting the required residency.

6. Oath not taken in time

This had been a reason for refusal in 2005. However, the 2012 records showed that no such refusal had been made for the year.

7. Other reasons.

In 2005, refusals had been made on this ground. This includes false representations, fraud and forgery, non-disclosure of material facts, Secretary of State Rejection, adverse immigration history and medical reasons.

The most common reasons for refusal for citizenship are failure to meet compulsory residence and having a dubious character. The only year where failure to pass the vital exams was the major cause for refusal was in 2007. In 2012, refusal due to failure to pass the English and Life in the UK Test accounts only to 2% of total refusals.