Ancestry Visa

What is a UK Ancestry Visa?

A UK Ancestry Visa allows Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man to live and work in the UK. This visa can lead to settlement and eventually British citizenship.

Who is eligible for a UK Ancestry Visa?

To be eligible for a UK Ancestry Visa, you must:

  • Be a Commonwealth citizen.
  • Be at least 17 years old.
  • Have a grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or on a British-registered ship or aircraft.
  • Intend to work in the UK.
  • Be able to support yourself financially without recourse to public funds.
  • Provide a TB test certificate if required.

How do I apply for a UK Ancestry Visa?

You can apply for a UK Ancestry Visa online through the UK government’s official website. You will need to provide various documents, including proof of your ancestry, financial stability, and intention to work in the UK. The application fee is £637, and you may also need to pay a healthcare surcharge.

What documents are required for a UK Ancestry Visa application?

The required documents include:

  • A valid passport.
  • Proof of your grandparent’s birth in the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man.
  • Evidence of your relationship to your grandparent.
  • Financial documents showing you can support yourself.
  • A TB test certificate if applicable.

How long does it take to process a UK Ancestry Visa application?

The processing time for a UK Ancestry Visa application is typically around 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK. You can apply up to 3 months before your intended travel date.

Can I bring my family with me on a UK Ancestry Visa?

Yes, you can bring your partner and children with you on a UK Ancestry Visa. They will need to apply as your dependants and meet certain eligibility criteria.

How long can I stay in the UK on a UK Ancestry Visa?

A UK Ancestry Visa allows you to stay in the UK for 5 years. After this period, you can apply to extend your visa or apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement).

What are the benefits of a UK Ancestry Visa?

The benefits of a UK Ancestry Visa include the ability to live and work in the UK, bring your family with you, and eventually apply for British citizenship. It also offers greater flexibility compared to other visa types.

Get the best Immigration advice on successfully getting UK Ancestry visa

Are you eligible for a UK Ancestry Visa? Let Morgan Smith Immigration make your application process seamless and stress-free. Our dedicated team of immigration experts is here to provide you with tailored advice and hands-on assistance, ensuring you meet all the requirements and submit a strong application.

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Can I extend my UK Ancestry Visa?

Yes, you can apply to extend your UK Ancestry Visa for another 5 years if you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. This extension can be applied for from within the UK.

What is the cost of a UK Ancestry Visa?

The application fee for a UK Ancestry Visa is £637. Additionally, you may need to pay the healthcare surcharge, which is currently £1,035 per year.

Do I need to take an English language test for a UK Ancestry Visa?

No, there is no English language requirement for a UK Ancestry Visa. However, you will need to meet the English language requirement if you apply for indefinite leave to remain or British citizenship later on.

Can I switch to a UK Ancestry Visa from another visa category while in the UK?

No, you cannot switch to a UK Ancestry Visa from another visa category while in the UK. You must apply for the UK Ancestry Visa from outside the UK.

What happens if my UK Ancestry Visa application is refused?

If your UK Ancestry Visa application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. You may have the option to request an administrative review or appeal the decision, depending on the circumstances.

Can I work in any job on a UK Ancestry Visa?

Yes, you can work in any job, whether employed or self-employed, on a UK Ancestry Visa. There are no restrictions on the type of work you can do.

What is indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and how do I qualify for it on a UK Ancestry Visa?

Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) allows you to live in the UK without any time restrictions. To qualify for ILR on a UK Ancestry Visa, you must have lived in the UK for 5 years, have been continuously employed or self-employed, and meet the English language and life in the UK requirements.

Can I apply for British citizenship after holding a UK Ancestry Visa?

Yes, you can apply for British citizenship after holding a UK Ancestry Visa. You must first obtain indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and then meet the residency requirements for citizenship.

What are the continuous residence requirements for a UK Ancestry Visa?

To meet the continuous residence requirements, you must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during your 5-year visa period. This is important for qualifying for indefinite leave to remain.

How can Morgan Smith Immigration help you with your Ancestry Visa?

Morgan Smith Immigration is dedicated to guiding clients through the UK Ancestry Visa application process. Our knowledgeable immigration lawyers offer tailored advice, help you collect all necessary documents, and ensure your application is thorough and precise. Reach out to us today to book a consultation and begin your journey to a new life in the UK.

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