Qualification for a UK Ancestry Visa
You qualify if you can prove that:
- you are a Commonwealth citizen
- you are aged 17 or over
- you have a grandparent who was born in the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man
- you have a grandparent who was born in what is now the Republic of Ireland before 31 March 1922
- you are able to work and intend to do so in the UK
- you can support yourself and any dependants, and live without
- needing any help from public funds.
NB: If you or your parent (through whom you are claiming ancestry) are adopted, you are still able to apply for entry under this category.
You must show evidence of the legal adoption with your application form.
Do I need to obtain a work permit?
No. You do not need a work permit.
How long can I stay?
If you arrive with a UK ancestry visa, you have permission to stay for an initial period of two years. After two years, you will be able to apply for an extension for a further three years to allow you to complete the required five-year period before applying for permanent residence.
You can apply for permanent residence as long as:
- you continue to meet the requirements of the Rules for United Kingdom Ancestry
- you have spent a period of four years in employment in the UK in this way, without a break.
An application for permanent residence is made to the Immigration and Nationality Directorate (IND).
Can my family join me in the UK ?
Your husband, wife, or eligible partner and children under 18 years of age can join you in the UK if:
- they have a visa for this purpose
- you can support them and live without any help from public funds.
