The United Kingdom left the European Union (EU) in 2020, but citizenship of this first world island still offers an array of benefits, especially for entrepreneurs, parents and those who like to travel.

Travel benefits of the UK passport

The UK passport remains one of the most powerful passports in the world, offering visa-free or visa on arrival access to 192 countries and territories. Despite the UK no longer being part of the EU, UK passport holders can still travel to the EU and Schengen countries on holiday without a visa.

If you choose to live in the UK, its geographical location also makes access to the EU a breeze. You can reach anywhere in Europe within a few hours and travel between European countries is affordable.

The UK is still a top destination for business 

The country's well-established legal framework, strong financial sector, and reputation for innovation contribute to a favourable business environment. According to the World Bank's Doing Business report, the UK ranks eighth out of 190 economies for ease of doing business, emphasising its efficient regulatory environment and simplicity in starting a business.

The UK continues to be a global leader in various industries, including finance, technology, and creative sectors. London remains a premier financial hub, offering highly developed infrastructure and access to international markets.

Holding UK citizenship simplifies the process of establishing a business in the UK, as you do not need to worry about obtaining a business visa or work permit.

Learn more about expanding your business to the UK.

Access to the NHS and public benefits

If you choose to relocate to the UK, citizenship gives you access to free healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS).

Once you become Habitually Resident You will have access to other social benefits such as subsidised childcare and financial assistance for housing. This means being able to demonstrate that you have taken up residence in the UK with the intention of settling there permanently and involves living in the UK for a length of time before you qualify.

See also: What public funds are available to immigrants in the UK?

Quality education at a reduced cost

The UK boasts a prestigious and globally recognised education system and UK universities are often ranked as some of the best in the world.

If you choose to relocate your family to the UK, free secondary schooling is available from state-funded schools.

When it comes to tertiary education, UK citizens who are resident in the UK are classified as “home students” for tuition fee purposes, which allows them to pay significantly lower tuition fees compared to international students.

Undergraduate tuition fees for home students at most UK universities are capped by the government. For example, for the 2023/24 academic year, the maximum tuition fee for home students for full-time undergraduate courses at public universities in England is £9,250 per year. In comparison, tuition for international students generally ranges between £15,000 and £50,000 per year depending on your course of study.

A plan B for the future

Even if you don’t plan to uproot your family and move to the UK once you hold UK citizenship, the UK allows dual citizenship, meaning that you can obtain a second passport without relinquishing your current citizenship. This makes UK citizenship a great option for those looking towards the future and at keeping their options open.

If you think you may qualify for UK citizenship or would like to explore your immigration and naturalisation options, you can get in touch with our team on +44 (0) 20 7759 7581 or +27 (0) 21 657 2139 . Alternatively, you can send an email to citizenship@sableinternational.com.

We are a professional services company that specialises in cross-border financial and immigration advice and solutions.

Our teams in the UK, South Africa and Australia can ensure that when you decide to move overseas, invest offshore or expand your business internationally, you'll do so with the backing of experienced local experts.