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Overview of the UK Ancestry Visa

The UK Ancestry visa is designed for Commonwealth citizens and British Overseas citizens or nationals with a grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man. This visa allows holders to live, work, and study in the UK, and they can bring dependent family members. The visa is initially granted for 5 years, after which holders can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or permanent settlement.

Commonwealth Countries

Commonwealth countries include:

  • Africa: Botswana, Cameroon, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Kingdom of Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia
  • Asia: Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, India, Malaysia, Maldives, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka
  • Caribbean and Americas: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and The Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago
  • Europe: Cyprus, Malta, United Kingdom
  • Pacific: Australia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu

Grandparent Requirement for UK Ancestry Visa

Applicants must prove that at least one grandparent was born in:

  • The UK, Isle of Man, or Channel Islands
  • On a British-registered aircraft or ship
  • Before March 31, 1922, in what is now the Republic of Ireland

Applicants can also apply if they or their parents are adopted, with legal adoption evidence. However, applications through step-parents are not permissible.

Financial Requirement for UK Ancestry Visa

There is no fixed amount required, but applicants must demonstrate their ability to support themselves and any dependants without public funds.

 

Application Process for a UK Ancestry Visa

Steps to Apply:

  1. Complete the Online Ancestry Visa Application Form:

    • Fill out the form online up to three months before planned travel to the UK. Dependants need separate applications.

  2. Upload Supporting Documents:

    • Required documents may include:
      • Current passport or travel document
      • Full birth certificates of the applicant and their parent/grandparent
      • Evidence of work plans in the UK (job offer/business plan)
      • Financial self-sufficiency proof (bank statement within 31 days of application)
      • Marriage certificate or civil partnership document if applicable
      • Legal adoption papers if applicable
      • TB test certificate depending on the country of origin

  3. Payment of Fees:

    • Pay application fees, healthcare surcharge, and BRP fee.

  4. Schedule a Visa Application Centre Appointment:

    • Book an appointment for biometrics (photo and fingerprints).

  5. Await Decision:

    • A decision is typically made within 3 weeks.

Required Documents for UK Ancestry Visa

Documents may include:

  • Current passport or travel document
  • Full birth certificates of the applicant and their parent/grandparent
  • Evidence of work plans in the UK
  • Financial self-sufficiency proof
  • Evidence of name changes, if applicable
  • Legal adoption papers, if applicable
  • TB test certificate
  • Marriage certificate or civil partnership document if applicable

Costs Associated with the UK Ancestry Visa

Fees:

  • Application Fee:
    • £531
  • NHS Healthcare Surcharge:
    • £624 per year for adults, £470 per year for children under 18
  • Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) Fee:
    • £19.20
  • Fast Track Options:
    • £500 for priority service (5 working days)
    • £800 for super-priority service (next working day)

Activities Permitted and Restricted on a UK Ancestry Visa

Permitted Activities:

  • Work for any employer in any capacity
  • Pursue studies
  • Bring immediate family members

Restricted Activities:

  • Cannot switch to an Ancestry visa from within the UK
  • Cannot access public funds

UK Ancestry Visa Duration and Renewal

ILR Application:

  • Must apply before the current visa expires, typically 28 days before
  • Schedule an appointment with UKVCAS for biometrics
  • Must have resided in the UK for 5 continuous years with no more than 180 days outside the UK per year
  • Provide evidence of consistent employment or efforts to seek employment

UK Ancestry Visa Duration and Renewal

ILR Application:

  • Must apply before the current visa expires, typically 28 days before
  • Schedule an appointment with UKVCAS for biometrics
  • Must have resided in the UK for 5 continuous years with no more than 180 days outside the UK per year
  • Provide evidence of consistent employment or efforts to seek employment

Extension Costs:

  • £1,048 for the extension
  • NHS healthcare surcharge

ILR Eligibility:

  • Demonstrate financial resources
  • Intent to work in the UK
  • Commonwealth citizenship
  • Pass the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK test
  • Fulfil English language requirements

Application Challenges:

  • Applications may be refused due to insufficient evidence, criminal convictions, fee discrepancies, or a lack of response to UKVI information requests. Options include administrative review, reapplication, or consideration of alternative visas.

For detailed guidance and support, contact us at +44 (0) 121 572 8126 or via email at immigrations@ausuk.co.uk.

Specializing in providing effective immigration advice and visa services for individuals and businesses worldwide. Our expert team is dedicated to making the immigration process straightforward and stress-free. Regulated by the OISC, we uphold the highest standards of care and practice. Contact us for your immigration needs.

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