Ancestry Visa (UK)

The UK Ancestry Visa allows Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK to live, work, and study in the country for up to 5 years. It provides a pathway for individuals with ancestral ties to the UK to build a long-term future, with the potential to apply for settlement afterward.

Key Features of the Ancestry Visa

  • Grants permission to live and work in the UK for up to 5 years.
  • Applicants must have at least one grandparent born in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or before 31 March 1922 in Ireland.
  • Visa holders can work for any employer, be self-employed, or study full-time in the UK.
  • After 5 years of continuous residence, applicants may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Eligibility Requirements

  • Proof of ancestry — birth or marriage certificates linking the applicant to their UK-born grandparent.
  • Evidence of financial means to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
  • Intention to work, study, or seek employment in the UK.
  • Meeting UK health and character requirements.

Application Process

  • Complete the online application form and upload required documents.
  • Attend a biometrics appointment (and interview, if requested).
  • Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
  • Wait for your decision — typically processed within 3–8 weeks.

Once approved, visa holders must comply with all UK immigration laws and conditions of stay. The Ancestry Visa offers a direct path toward permanent settlement for those maintaining lawful residence in the UK for five years.

Visa2Migrate provides expert support for ancestry-based visa applications — helping clients prepare accurate documentation, meet eligibility criteria, and transition smoothly into life in the UK.

Pro Tip: Gather certified copies of birth and marriage certificates from all generations linking you to your UK-born grandparent — this documentation is crucial for Ancestry Visa approval.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and may change without prior notice. For the most up-to-date eligibility rules and application details, please visit the official UK government website or seek advice from a licensed immigration professional.