UK Ancestry Visa
Allows eligible Commonwealth citizens to live, work, and study in the UK if they can prove that one of their grandparents was born here.
Enquire Now See How We Can HelpHow family history can provide a pathway to living and working in the UK
The UK Ancestry Visa is ideal for those with ancestral ties to the UK who wish to build a life or career here.
It is part of the UK immigration system, is valid for up to 5 years and provides a route to settlement through Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Getting Started
The UK Ancestry Visa offers Commonwealth citizens with British-born grandparents a unique and relatively flexible route to live and work in the UK. To be eligible, you must be a Commonwealth citizen aged 17 or over, with at least one grandparent born in the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or Ireland before 31 March 1922 — or on a UK-registered or government-owned ship or aircraft. It’s worth noting that ancestry through step-parents does not qualify. Alongside the ancestral connection, you’ll need to demonstrate that you are able to work and genuinely intend to do so in the UK, and that you have sufficient funds to support and accommodate yourself without recourse to public funds. The initial application must be made from outside the UK.
What the Visa Allows
The Ancestry Visa is granted for up to five years and comes with certain freedoms. You can work in virtually any role, including self-employment, and you’re also permitted to study. Your partner and children can apply to join or remain with you in the UK as dependants. Be aware you cannot access public funds at any point during your stay. Before your visa expires, you can apply to extend it for a further period.
The Path to Settlement
After five years of continuous residence in the UK on an Ancestry Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, granting you permanent residency and the unrestricted right to live, work, and study in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply from inside the UK?
No. Initial applications must be made from outside the UK. However, extension applications may be submitted from within the UK.
Can I switch to another visa route?
Yes. You may switch to another UK visa category if you meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
Ready to get started?
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Need help with your UK Ancestry Visa application?
At Permits2Work, we offer professional legal support throughout the entire UK visa and immigration process - from initial eligibility assessments to application preparation and Home Office correspondence.
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