UK Ancestry Visa
Commonwealth citizens over the age of 17 who have a UK born grandparent can qualify for UK Ancestry Visa. This visa type allows you to live, work, study in the UK on a temporary basis which can then lead to settlement.
You can bring your dependants i.e., spouse and children under the age of 18. After 5 years, you can apply to extend your Ancestry Visa for a further 5 years or apply for indefinite leave to remain.
Although the exact conditions will vary on your circumstances, the typical requirements that you must meet for a UK Ancestry visa are:
You are aged 17 or over
Are a Commonwealth citizen
Are able to provide evidence to show one of your grandparents was born in the UK
Intend to seek employment in the UK
You are able to maintain and accommodate yourself and any dependants without recourse to public funds
Instruct expert lawyers to guide you through your UK Ancestry Visa application
Our London based expert immigration lawyers will work with you ensuring your applications meets Home Office rules. Securing a UK ancestry visa can be life changing, there is no restriction on the type of work you can undertake and opens up the route to settlement in the UK. It’s important to ensure that the application is made correctly with all supporting documentary evidence, particularly, as you are applying as a relative of a British Citizen.
Mulgrave Law are experienced UK immigration lawyers with specialist knowledge, we’ll work with you through the entire process, document check your application so it has the best chances of success. Get in touch today and speak to one of our expert immigration advisors.
Frequently Asked Questions about UK Ancestry Visa Applications
Q: If my UK Ancestry Visa is refused, can I appeal?
A: Unlike some other visa types, there is no automatic right of appeal unless the Home Office has made a clear error in the decision-making process. An administrative review of the decision can be requested if you are sure the application should have been accepted.
Q: How long does the Ancestry Visa application process take?
A: If you are applying from outside the UK, the Home Office usually makes a decision within 3 weeks.
Q: Can I switch into Ancestry Visa type if I came to the UK on a different visa?
A: No, you cannot switch into Ancestry Visa if you came to the UK on another visa.
Q: Can I apply for a UK Ancestry visa while in the UK?
A: UK Ancestry Visa applications can only be made from outside the UK.
Q: Do I have to be working at the time of making my UK Ancestry Visa application?
A: No, you do not have to be working at the time of making UK Ancestry Visa application but you must be able to prove that you genuinely have intention to seek or take up employment in the UK. Your circumstances will play an important factor when assessing whether this requirement is met, such as your age and health condition.