UK Ancestry visa: Frequently asked questions
👵 For Commonwealth citizens who have a grandparent born in the UK, the UK Ancestry visa is a popular choice.
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If you are a Commonwealth citizen and have a grandparent who was born in the UK, you may be eligible for a UK Ancestry visa. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to five years. Here are some frequently asked questions about the UK Ancestry visa.
FAQs about the UK Ancestry visa
Who is eligible for a UK Ancestry visa?
To be eligible for a UK Ancestry visa, you must be a Commonwealth citizen and have a grandparent who was born in the UK. You must also be 17 years or older, able to work and intend to work in the UK, and able to support yourself without recourse to public funds.
How long is a UK Ancestry visa valid for?
A UK Ancestry visa is valid for five years. After this time, you may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
How do I apply for a UK Ancestry visa?
To apply for a UK Ancestry visa, you must complete an online application on GOV.UK and pay the application fee.
You'll also need to provide various certificates and documents, including;
- Your passport
- Your grandparent's UK birth certificate
- Your parents birth certificate
- Evidence that you can financially support yourself
Do I need a job before applying for a UK Ancestry visa?
No, you do not need to have a job offer before applying for a UK Ancestry visa. However, you will need to demonstrate that you can support yourself financially during your stay in the UK.
What documents do I need to apply for a UK Ancestry visa?
There are several key documents that you need to provide to prove your British ancestry during the UK Ancestry visa application. These documents include:
- Your current passport
- Your birth certificate
- The full birth certificates of the parent and grandparent your ancestry claim is based on
- Bank statements with savings of at least £3,310 for 28 days, dated within 31 days from when you submit your application
Does my UK grandparent need to be alive to apply?
Whether your UK grandparent is living or has passed away has no impact on your application.
Can I apply for the visa through a step-grandparent?
You can only apply for the UK Ancestry visa through direct lineage. This means you will only be approved for the UK Ancestry visa through a blood relative or legal adoption.
Does a UK Ancestry visa allow me to work and study?
Yes, a UK Ancestry visa allows the holder to work and study in the UK. In fact, the visa is designed for those who wish to come to the UK to work, so it is expected that the visa holder will find employment while in the country. Additionally, holders of this visa can also pursue educational opportunities in the UK.
Can I apply for a UK Ancestry visa if I've already held a UK visa?
Yes, it's possible to apply for a UK Ancestry visa even if you have previously held another type of UK visa. However, you must still meet all the eligibility requirements for the Ancestry visa, including having a grandparent who was born in the UK, and providing all the necessary documentation to support your application.
Can I switch to a different visa category while in the UK on a UK Ancestry visa?
Yes, you may be able to switch to a different visa category while in the UK on a UK Ancestry visa, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements for the new visa.
Can I apply for citizenship with a UK Ancestry visa?
If you have lived in the UK for at least five years on a UK Ancestry visa, you may be able to apply for citizenship. You will need to meet the eligibility requirements, including passing the Life in the UK test and meeting the English language requirement.
Can I bring my family with me on a UK Ancestry visa?
Yes, you can bring your partner and children under the age of 18 with you to the UK on a UK Ancestry visa. They will need to apply for their own visas and meet the eligibility requirements.
