What is the Ancestry Visa?

This visa is for people who have a specified connection to the UK, and it allows them to live and work here. This is a route to settlement.

The groups of people who can apply for this visa are limited. An Applicant must be either a commonwealth citizen, a British overseas citizen, a British overseas territories citizen, a British national (overseas), or a citizen of Zimbabwe. An Applicant must also be able to prove that one of their grandparents was born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.

What are the basic requirements?

In addition to being an Applicant that hails from one of the groups above, an Applicant must prove that they:

• Are 17 or older
• Have enough money to support themselves without recourse to public funds
• Can work in the UK and plan to do so

They must also supply documentary evidence of their grandparent’s birth in the UK. This includes a grandparent born on a ship or aircraft that was either registered in the UK or belonged to the UK government. An Applicant can also claim ancestry if they, or their parents, were adopted, though ancestry cannot be claimed through step-parents. To meet this requirement, an Applicant will need to show:

• Their full birth certificate
• Their parent’s full birth certificate
• Their grandparent’s full birth certificate

To prove that you can and intend to work in the UK, evidence such as job offers can be submitted. Some Applicants may need to provide evidence of a TB test to show that they do not have Tuberculosis. This only applies to certain countries.

Applicants must also meet relevant validity requirements which include making an application on the correct form, paying the correct fees, submitting biometrics information when required. It is a requirement of this visa that an initial application must be made from outside of the UK. 

Applicants must meet suitability requirements as well, and these include (but are not limited to) not being convicted of criminal offences and not having previously breached immigration laws.

What is the financial requirement?

Applicants must demonstrate that they can and will adequately maintain and accommodate themselves and any dependents in the UK without recourse to public funds. There is no set level of funds an Applicant must hold.

What is the length of leave granted?

Applicants can stay in the UK for 5 years on this visa. If you have already been in the UK for five years on this visa, provided you continue to meet the requirements you may be able to extend your visa for a further five years, or settle permanently in the UK.

Can my dependents join me on this visa?

Your partner and children can apply to join you in the UK as your dependent. A partner must prove their relationship to you (such as a legal marriage, recognised in the UK, or that you have been living together in a relationship for at least two years, for instance), and a child must be ale to demonstrate that they are not married or leading an independent life, and that they normally live with you.

How much does it cost?

The visa fee for an initial application is £726. If you are extending your visa, the fee is £1,407. If you are applying to settle, the fee is £3,226. All Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. This is currently £1,035 per adult per year and £776 per child per year. All fees need to be paid upfront at time of submission.

What are the conditions of leave to remain?

This visa is normally granted with no access to public funds. Work is permitted, including self-employment, voluntary work is permitted, and study is permitted, subject to certain conditions. You cannot switch into this visa if you came to the UK on a different visa.

How can we help?

The exact requirements for each application can vary depending on your circumstances. Our experienced solicitors and legal advisors can help you and your family:

• Prepare an initial application, extension application, or indefinite leave to remain application under the Ancestry route
• Challenge decisions by way of Administrative Review or appeal processes (if permitted)

We will assist by:

• Taking full instructions from you
• Advising you on the requirements specific to your circumstances
• Reviewing relevant documents which you provide, and advising on their suitability
• Advising on the best solutions for your situation
• Preparing the application (including the completion of relevant forms)
• Preparing tailored covering submissions to fit your circumstances
• Assisting with submitting the application(s) and arranging for biometrics appointments if necessary
• Communicating with the relevant authority until a decision is made
• Advising about your rights and entitlements following a decision an application
• Providing follow up advice after a decision is received about your duties and responsibilities

CONTACT US

DESCARTES SOLICITORS is recognised as one of the leading multi-practice firms in the UK. Our specialist immigration team will advise, prepare, and submit high-quality visa applications for applicants and their dependent family members. Contact our lawyers on 0208 995 3556 or e-mail info@descartessolicitors.co.uk.