UK Ancestry Visa in 2025

If you’ve got a grandparent who was born in the UK, you might be eligible to live and work here under the UK Ancestry Visa. For many people from countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and South Africa, this visa opens the door to long-term life in Britain without the need for a job offer or a sponsor.

Whether you’re dreaming of working in the UK, settling near family, or simply returning to your roots, the Ancestry route is one of the most flexible options available. Let’s break down how it works in 2025, who can apply, and what you’ll need to get started.

What Is the UK Ancestry Visa?

The UK Ancestry Visa is a visa route for Commonwealth citizens who have a grandparent born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man. It allows you to live, work or study in the UK for five years, with the option to settle permanently later on.

One of the biggest draws of this visa is that it doesn’t require a job offer or employer sponsorship. It’s ideal for people who want to move to the UK independently, while keeping full freedom over their work or studies.

If you’re eligible, this visa can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and eventually British citizenship making it a long-term choice for those with ancestral ties to the UK.

Who Can Apply for an Ancestry Visa?

To qualify, you must meet a few key requirements:

• You’re a Commonwealth citizen
• You’re aged 17 or over
• You have at least one grandparent born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man
• You plan to work or look for work in the UK
• You can support yourself (and your dependants, if any) without needing public funds

It’s important that the grandparent was born in the UK not just lived here. Adoption can sometimes be taken into account, but step-grandparents don’t count for this route.

UK Ancestry Visa Requirements (2025)

To apply successfully, you’ll need to provide several documents and meet the visa conditions. Here’s what you’ll be expected to show.

Proof of UK Born Grandparent

You must prove your family connection to a UK born grandparent. This typically includes:

• Your full birth certificate
• Your parent’s birth certificate (the child of your UK born grandparent)
• Your grandparent’s UK birth certificate
• Adoption papers if the relationship includes legal adoption

Make sure the documents clearly show the direct link between you and your UK born grandparent.

Commonwealth Citizenship

This visa is only open to Commonwealth citizens. You’ll need a valid passport from a Commonwealth country. These include Australia, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand, Jamaica, India, and many others.

Intention to Work

You don’t need to have a job lined up, but you do need to show that you plan to work or look for work in the UK. This could be through a written statement, proof of previous work experience, or a CV.

Financial Requirement

You must show you can support yourself (and any family members you bring) without relying on government help. Bank statements showing sufficient savings or income are usually accepted.

How to Apply for a UK Ancestry Visa

The process is mainly online and fairly straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect:

Application Process

• Prepare your documents :  Collect birth certificates, your passport, financial records, and anything else you’ll need.
• Apply online : Go to the UK Government’s official website and fill out the application form.
• Pay the visa fee : This is currently around £637.
• Book your biometrics appointment : You’ll be asked to provide fingerprints and a photo at a visa centre.
• Upload your documents : Submit your supporting documents online or at your visa appointment.
• Wait for a decision : Most applications are processed within three weeks.

Documents Needed

Here’s a checklist of the usual documents:

• Valid passport
• Your birth certificate
• Parent’s and grandparent’s birth certificates
• Marriage certificates (if needed to show name changes)
• Proof of Commonwealth citizenship
• Proof of funds (e.g. bank statements)
• Statement or evidence of your intention to work

Visa Fees and Processing Time

As of 2025, the UK Ancestry Visa costs around £637.

In addition, you’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) this is £1,035 per year, which gives you full access to the NHS during your stay.

Processing time is usually around 3 weeks, but you can pay for a faster service in some locations.

What You Can Do on an Ancestry Visa

Once you’re granted the visa, you can live a full and flexible life in the UK. You’re free to:

• Work in any job full-time, part-time or self-employed
• Study at any college or university
• Open a business or freelance
• Travel in and out of the UK freely
• Bring your partner and children (if they qualify)

You’re not tied to any particular employer or area of work, so it’s a great option for those who want independence.

How Long Does the Visa Last?

The visa is initially granted for five years. Just before it expires, you can either:

• Extend your visa, or
• Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is permanent residence

The five-year period gives you plenty of time to build your life in the UK before making a decision about staying long term.

Route to Settlement and British Citizenship

Many people on an Ancestry Visa eventually decide to settle permanently in the UK. Here’s how it works:

• You can apply for ILR after five continuous years in the UK
• You must have lived and worked here consistently during that time
• After holding ILR for 12 months, you can apply for British citizenship

To become a citizen, you’ll need to pass the Life in the UK Test and meet English language requirements.

Can You Bring Family on a UK Ancestry Visa?

Yes, you can bring your partner or spouse and any children under 18 with you. Each person must apply for a visa in their own right, but they can come to the UK as your dependants.

You’ll need to show that you can financially support your whole household without needing public funds. Your partner will also be allowed to work or study freely once they arrive.

FAQs – UK Ancestry Visa

Can I apply for an Ancestry Visa without a job offer?

Yes, a job offer is not required. You just need to show that you plan to work once you’re in the UK.

What if my grandparent was adopted or born outside the UK?

If your grandparent was adopted, the visa might still be possible, depending on the legal adoption details. If they were born outside the UK, the application usually won’t be successful unless the birth was in the Channel Islands or Isle of Man.

Can I switch to another visa from a UK Ancestry Visa?

In some cases, yes. Depending on your circumstances, you might be able to switch to another visa route while in the UK. Speak to an immigration adviser before making any changes.

Do I need to live in the UK for the full 5 years to get ILR?

Yes. To apply for settlement, you’ll need to show continuous residence and a genuine work history over the five years.

How many times can I apply for an Ancestry Visa?

There’s no limit on the number of times you can apply. If your visa runs out or you leave the UK and want to return, you can apply again as long as you still meet the criteria.

If you’ve got British roots and want to live and work in the UK, the Ancestry Visa is one of the most flexible and straightforward options out there. With no need for a job offer, the chance to bring your family, and a clear path to permanent settlement, it’s a great way to reconnect with the UK while building a new life.

Need help applying for a UK Ancestry Visa? 

We at Solicitors in Manchester offer free immigration advice to help you check your eligibility, prepare your documents, and give your application the best possible start. Call us now on 0161 464 4140 or book an appointment to speak with a legal adviser based in Manchester, United Kingdom.