UK Ancestry
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Overview Of The UK Ancestry Visa
The UK Ancestry visa allows Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent to live and work in the UK. It is a flexible work route that does not require sponsorship, a job offer or a specific type of employment. Applicants may undertake any lawful work, including employment, self-employment and voluntary work.
The route provides a pathway to Settlement after five years.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a UK Ancestry visa, an applicant must demonstrate that:
- They are a Commonwealth citizen.
- They are aged 17 or over.
- They have a grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man.
- They can work and intend to work in the UK.
- They can support themselves and any dependants without access to public funds.
- They meet the general immigration requirements.
An eligible grandparent would, in general, have to be:
- Born in the UK.
- Born in the Channel Islands or Isle of Man.
- Born in Ireland before 31 March 1922.
- Born on a ship or aircraft that was either registered in the UK or belonged to the UK government.
- Have an adoptive relationship (subject to specific rules).
Length And Conditions Of Stay
UK Ancestry visas are normally granted for five years.
During their stay, visa holders may:
- Work in any lawful role.
- Be self-employed.
- Undertake voluntary work.
- Study, subject to any ATAS requirements.
- Travel freely in and out of the UK.
They must not access public funds.
Settlement
The UK Ancestry route provides a direct pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). To qualify, applicants will usually need to demonstrate that:
- They have completed five years’ continuous residence in the UK.
- Their absences meet the relevant requirements.
- They have passed the Life in the UK Test.
- They meet the English language requirement.
- They continue to meet the eligibility requirements under the route.
Dependants may also be eligible for Settlement if they meet the relevant criteria.
Dependants
Partners and dependent children may accompany or join a UK Ancestry visa holder. Dependants must meet the financial and relationship requirements and may be able to work in the UK.
How Our Immigration Partners Can Help
We advise individuals on eligibility for the UK Ancestry visa, evidence requirements, extension applications and Settlement. If you would like to discuss your circumstances or plan your next steps, please contact us or complete our enquiry form below.