Following the recent Windrush scandal, those who arrived in the UK before 1973, are now entitled to free citizenship.

This includes members of the Windrush generation with no current documentation,  leave to remain and those who want to advance their status as well as the children of the Windrush generation.

The offer will be available to people from all Commonwealth countries not just Caribbean nations.

Alongside the offer, the Home Secretary confirmed that they have set up a compensation scheme to help those who have suffered or lost damage due to the scandal.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd has said: “The contribution of the Windrush generation and their right to be in the UK is in no doubt and I deeply regret the situation that has arisen.”

There will also be a new customer contact centre set up, so that those struggling to understand the different types of immigration routes can speak to an expert and get advice.

Alongside the customer contact centre, they will not need to pay any fees for the citizenship application. And they will not have to pass the usual Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK test.

A new team has been set up to help people confirm their status and they will tell those who arrived in the country between 1973 and 1988, within the two weeks of the necessary evidence being collected, the decision they come to.

So far the team has successfully resolved 9 cases and made 84 appointments to give the individuals,who have contacted the team through the freephone helpline, their documents.

Furthermore, the Home Office will help those who arrived before 1973, have spent their life in the UK and are now struggling to visit or to move back. They will allow them to come back by facilitating their return on the most suitable route and waive any fees.