Citizenship priority service open to UK applicants using form MN1 from 20 July 2026

Customers applying from within the UK to register a child under 18 as a British citizen using form MN1 can use the citizenship priority service from 20 July 2026.

The GOV.UK page for form MN1 now says that, from 20 July 2026, customers applying from within the UK can use the citizenship priority service. The page points readers to a separate GOV.UK page for more about the priority service. This item does not cover that page, so it does not give the cost of the service or any decision times for it.

Form MN1 is used to register a child under 18 as a British citizen if the child qualifies through birth or adoption. The page says people who do not live in the Channel Islands, Isle of Man or a British Overseas Territory can apply online. The paper form is for people who live in those places, or who live elsewhere and want to apply by post.

The page gives a service level agreement of 6 months for applications. It says every effort is made to reach a decision and provide an outcome as quickly as possible. It also says delays can arise from circumstances beyond its control, and that applicants will be kept informed of the status of their application if that happens.

The page also covers the following:

• Most people who live in the UK and apply online can keep their documents while the application is processed.
• Applicants will need to submit their documents with the application.
• An applicant who is under 18 and cannot afford the application fee may be able to apply for a fee waiver.
• Help with an online application is available in the UK for people who do not have the appropriate access, skills or confidence to complete an online immigration application form.

Related guide: Naturalisation requirements

Sources

• Register child under 18 as British citizen (form MN1), GOV.UK