Ancestry / Descent in United Kingdom

UK Ancestry visa

For Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man who intend to work in the UK. Leads to settlement after 5 years.

Processing time

Usually 3 weeks (from outside UK)

Validity

5 years, extendable

Language requirement

No separate English language requirement

Permanent residence

ILR after 5 years

Citizenship

Naturalisation 12 months after ILR (subject to residence rules)

Requirements

• Commonwealth citizen aged 17 or over
• A grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man (documented chain)
• Able and intending to work in the UK
• Sufficient funds to support and accommodate yourself

Required Documents

• Valid passport or travel ID required
• Birth certificates establishing the chain to a UK/Channel Islands/Isle of Man-born grandparent (yours, your parent's, your grandparent's) required
• Evidence you can and intend to work required
• Proof of funds required

Official fees

• Application fee 726 GBP
• Immigration Health Surcharge (per year) 1,035 GBP

Process Steps

1. 1

   Gather ancestry evidence

   Assemble the chain of birth certificates proving the qualifying grandparent.

2. 2

   Apply online

   Apply from outside the UK up to 3 months before travel.

3. 3

   Pay fees

   Pay the fee and the IHS.

4. 4

   Biometrics and documents

   Provide biometrics and documents.

5. 5

   Decision

   Await the decision.

Official Sources

• UK Ancestry visa Official