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Ancestral Visa

What is a UK Ancestral Visa?
Who is eligible for a UK Ancestral Visa?
How long is a UK Ancestral Visa valid for?
Can I bring my family members with me on a UK Ancestral Visa?
Do I need a job offer to apply for a UK Ancestral Visa?
What are the financial requirements for a UK Ancestral Visa?
How do I apply for a UK Ancestral Visa?
What is the processing time for a UK Ancestral Visa?
Can I apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) with a UK Ancestral Visa?
Can I become a British citizen through a UK Ancestral Visa?
Where can I get more information about the UK Ancestral Visa?

What is a UK Ancestral Visa?

The UK Ancestral Visa is a type of visa that allows individuals with a grandparent born in the United Kingdom to live and work in the UK for a period of up to five years. It is designed for those who can prove their ancestral ties to the UK and wish to explore opportunities in the country.


Historically, countries with a significant number of UK Ancestral Visa applications included countries within the Commonwealth, such as South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Zimbabwe.

Who is eligible for a UK Ancestral Visa?

To be eligible for a UK Ancestral Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Have a grandparent who was born in the UK.

  • Be a Commonwealth citizen.

  • Be at least 17 years old.

  • Intend to work or seek employment in the UK.

  • Have sufficient funds to support yourself without relying on public funds. Try our Visa Cost Calculator to see if you have sufficient funds.


How long is a UK Ancestral Visa valid for?

A UK Ancestral Visa is initially granted for a period of five years. After this initial period, you can apply for an extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Can I bring my family members with me on a UK Ancestral Visa?

Yes, you can bring certain family members with you, including your spouse, civil partner, and dependent children under the age of 18. They will need to apply for their visas separately and meet the relevant eligibility requirements.

Do I need a job offer to apply for a UK Ancestral Visa?

While you do not need a job offer to apply, you must demonstrate your intention to work or seek employment in the UK. Having a job offer can strengthen your application, but it is not mandatory.

What are the financial requirements for a UK Ancestral Visa?

You must show that you have enough funds to support yourself without relying on public funds. 


Try our Visa Cost Calculator to calculate how much you will need.

How do I apply for a UK Ancestral Visa?

To apply for a UK Ancestral Visa, you must complete an online application form, pay the relevant application fee, and attend a visa application center to provide biometric data and necessary documents. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.


Useful links:

What is the processing time for a UK Ancestral Visa?

Processing times can vary depending on your country of application and other factors such as the time of year. It's advisable to check the current processing times on gov.uk website or with your nearest visa application center.

Can I apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) with a UK Ancestral Visa?

Yes, after living in the UK on a UK Ancestral Visa for five years, you may be eligible to apply for settlement, also known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR), provided you continue to meet the necessary requirements.

Can I become a British citizen through a UK Ancestral Visa?

After obtaining Idenfite Leave to Remain (ILR), you can apply for British citizenship if you meet the eligibility criteria, including meeting the residence requirement and passing the Life in the UK test.

Where can I get more information about the UK Ancestral Visa?

For the most up-to-date and detailed information about the UK Ancestral Visa, including application requirements and procedures, visit the official gov.uk website.

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