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The UK Ancestry visa is designed for Commonwealth citizens who have a grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or in what is now the Republic of Ireland before March 31, 1922. This visa route allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 5 years, after which they may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain). It's aimed at those wishing to explore their ancestral roots while contributing to the UK's economy. Applicants must prove their relationship to their UK-born grandparent and their ability to work and support themselves in the UK.
Other Routes
The UK Ancestry visa is designed for Commonwealth citizens who have a grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or in what is now the Republic of Ireland before March 31, 1922. This visa route allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 5 years, after which they may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain). It's aimed at those wishing to explore their ancestral roots while contributing to the UK's economy. Applicants must prove their relationship to their UK-born grandparent and their ability to work and support themselves in the UK.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for the UK Ancestry visa, including detailed requirements, step-by-step application process, required documents, costs, timeline, and expert tips for a successful application.
Varies by application type
Immigration Health Charge
Paid by employer
To prove your grandparent was born in the UK, you'll need their birth certificate. You will also need your parent's birth certificate to establish the link to your grandparent, and your own birth certificate to complete the chain of ancestry. If your grandparent was adopted, an adoption certificate that is legally recognized will also be required.
FeaturedYou must provide your full birth certificate, your parent's full birth certificate, and your grandparent's full birth certificate. If applicable, include marriage certificates to establish the family relationship clearly through the maternal or paternal line.
FeaturedTo demonstrate your intent to work in the UK, you can provide a job offer letter, evidence of job applications, a detailed job search plan, or professional qualifications that are recognized in the UK. While there is no specific salary requirement, the evidence should show genuine intent and capability to secure employment.
FeaturedYou can demonstrate your intention to work by providing evidence such as job offers, a detailed business plan if you intend to be self-employed, or proof of professional qualifications relevant to the UK job market.
FeaturedYes, you will need to provide a criminal record certificate from any country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. This helps establish that you meet the character and criminal record requirements for the visa.
FeaturedWhile there is no official minimum, you should demonstrate you can support yourself financially, typically by showing at least £1,270 in savings. Providing several months of bank statements to verify this amount is advisable.
FeaturedTightening of eligibility criteria, such as stricter proof of ancestry or financial requirements.
8/16/2025
Potential changes to the settlement pathway, such as adjustments to the length of stay required before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
8/16/2025