The UK Ancestry visa is a unique opportunity for certain Commonwealth citizens to live and work in the UK. This visa is particularly beneficial for those who have ancestral ties to the UK, allowing them to reconnect with their heritage while enjoying the benefits of residing in the UK. Below, you will find detailed information on the eligibility criteria, application process, and other essential aspects of the UK Ancestry visa.
What is a UK Ancestry Visa?
A UK Ancestry visa allows certain Commonwealth citizens and British nationals to live and work in the UK. This visa is available to:
- Commonwealth citizens
- British overseas citizens
- British overseas territories citizens
- British nationals (overseas)
- Citizens of Zimbabwe
What are the Eligibility Requirements?
To qualify for a UK Ancestry visa, you must:
- Prove that one of your grandparents was born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.
- Meet other eligibility criteria.
You must also prove that you:
- Are 17 or over
- Have enough money without help from public funds to support and house yourself and any dependants
- Can and plan to work in the UK
What are the Ancestry Requirements?
You must show that you have a grandparent born in one of the following circumstances:
- In the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man
- Before 31 March 1922 in what is now Ireland
- On a ship or aircraft that was either registered in the UK or belonged to the UK government
You can claim ancestry if:
- You or your parent were adopted
- Your parents or grandparents were not married
You cannot claim UK ancestry through step-parents.
What is the Application Process?
You can apply for this visa up to three months before your intended travel date. Typically, a decision is made within three weeks if you apply from outside the UK. The application fee is £637*, and you may also need to pay a healthcare surcharge.
What is the Duration and Extensions?
The UK Ancestry visa allows you to stay in the UK for five years. After this period, you can either apply to extend your visa for another five years or apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement).
How Do You Apply from Outside the UK?
You must apply online for a UK Ancestry visa before you travel to the UK.
When to Apply
The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel to the UK.
How to Apply Online
As part of your online application, you will need to book an appointment at a visa application centre to prove your identity. You’ll have your fingerprints and photograph (known as ‘biometric information’) taken at your appointment.
The visa application centre may keep your passport and documents while processing your application.
You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Decision?
Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.
You may be able to pay to get a faster decision.
How Do You Extend Your Visa?
You can apply to extend your visa and stay in the UK for a further 5 years. You must apply before your current visa expires and can extend this visa as many times as you like, as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements. You can also apply to settle in the UK permanently if you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years on this visa.
Fees
For each person applying, you’ll need to pay:
- The £1,258* application fee
- The healthcare surcharge
What are the Rights and Restrictions?
With a UK Ancestry visa, you can:
- Work (paid or voluntary, full-time or part-time, self-employed or employed)
- Study
- Bring your partner or child
However, you cannot switch to this visa if you are already in the UK on a different visa, nor can you access public funds.
Morgan Smith Immigration, an award-winning firm with over 20+ years of expertise in UK Visa and Immigration, is here to assist you with all your visa and immigration needs. For any enquiries or assistance, please contact us at 0203 959 3335 or send an email to [email protected]. Stay informed and up to date by following us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Also, don’t forget to subscribe our channel on YouTube.
*Home Office Fees as of 24/12/2024
