Due to the number of opportunities in the UK, there has been an increase in people seeking to migrate to the UK. There are many visa routes you can take to migrate to the UK, such as spouse visa, study visa, innovator visa, start-up visa, skilled worker visa, and international sportsperson visa, which we have discussed in detail in other articles. However, there is one visa that is less popular but also useful to anyone who wants to migrate to the UK is the Ancestry visa.
In this article, we will discuss all you need to know to migrate to the UK with the ancestry visa, from the basic requirements to the duration and application guidelines.
Are you ready?
Let’s get started.
READ: How to Migrate to the UK
Who Can Apply for an Ancestry Visa to Migrate to the UK?
As with routes visa routes, not everyone can apply because certain conditions must be met. You only need to qualify for one of the conditions below to be eligible to apply for the Ancestry visa.
- You must be a commonwealth citizen, i.e., your current citizenship must fall under a country that is a member of the commonwealth organization.
- You must be a citizen of British overseas territories. Some examples of British overseas territories are the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, and Anguilla.
- You must be a British overseas citizen. This means you must be a citizen of the UK or its colony as of 1st January 1983.
- You must be a British national(overseas). This applies to people who became British overseas territories citizens due to the Hong Kong connection.
In addition to that, you must also meet the following requirements.
- Prove one of your grandparents was born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man. Interesting, it doesn’t matter if your parents are married or separated. It doesn’t matter if your parents are adopted. Even if it is your step-grandparents, it is acceptable.
- You must be 17 years and above.
- Be able and have plans to work in the UK.
- Prove you have enough money to care for yourself and your dependents without seeking public funds. You are advised to have above £1200 in your account before applying for the visa.
Validity Period of an Ancestry Visa
If you want to migrate to the UK with the ancestry visa, note the UK ancestry visa allows you to stay in the UK for five years. One benefit of the ancestry visa is that once the five years elapse, you can extend the visa for another five years. Great, right?
In fact, there is no limit to the number of times you can extend your ancestry visa, although you must apply for an extension before your visa expires. If you migrate with your spouse and children, ensure you apply for a visa extension for each family member, not just yourself.
READ: How to Migrate to the UK with a Health and Care Worker Visa
Steps to Migrate to the UK with the Ancestry Visa
Here are steps you can take to migrate to the UK with the ancestry visa.
1. Check Eligibility
Before applying for the UK ancestry visa, you must be sure of your eligibility status. Make sure you tick all the boxes. Don’t overlook any eligibility requirements, no matter how insignificant they may seem.
2. Apply Online
Once you’re done with the eligibility phase, the next step is to apply for your ancestry visa. You can apply online through the UK Home Office. Follow the instructions on the visa application form and fill it out completely.
3. Submission of Supporting Documents
Afterward, submit other supporting documents, such as a birth certificate, financial statements, and current passport, to apply for the ancestry visa. You will be required to submit a tuberculosis test result if your country is one of the countries required to take the test. If you are employed, you must provide your evidence of employment.
4. Visa Payment
After submitting the necessary documents, the next step is to pay for the application. It costs £531 to apply for a UK ancestry visa. You may also be required to pay an immigration health surcharge depending on your visa application.
5. Collection of Biometric Data
The next step is to book an appointment for your biometric data collection. Your biometric information, such as fingerprints and photographs, will be taken at a visa application center to verify your identity.
6. Wait for a Decision and Receive your Visa
After you apply for an ancestry visa to migrate to the UK, you will get a verdict on your visa status within three weeks. If your application is successful, you will receive your visa, enabling you to move into the UK for five years.
READ: How to Migrate to the UK with a Skilled Worker Visa
Steps to Bring in Dependents When Migrating to the UK Through an Ancestry Visa?
No one likes to move alone, and it is especially true for families who plan to migrate to the UK through the ancestry visa. Here are a few requirements needed before bringing in dependants
- To bring in a spouse, you must be married or have been in a relationship for at least two years before applying for the visa. Some ways to prove that you’re in a relationship are a marriage certificate, shared utility bills of the same address, and shared bank accounts.
- To apply for a dependent child, the child must be below 18.
Also, note that both the spouse and children must simultaneously apply for the ancestry visa as you.
What are the Benefits of a UK Ancestry Visa?
A UK ancestry visa has many advantages, especially for those seeking to migrate to the UK. Some of these advantages include
- You are allowed to work and live in the UK without any restriction
- There is no restriction to the type of employment undertaken
- It is a good avenue to attain ‘indefinite leave to remain’ status in the UK
- It is also a good pathway to securing a British citizenship
- However, you are not required to invest in the UK, unlike other visas, such as the entrepreneurial visa
READ: How to Relocate to the UK with a Student Visa
Conclusion
Migrating to the UK can seem daunting, but the UK ancestry visa offers a perfect choice to make your dream come true. With the information above, you’re finally ready to apply and obtain your UK ancestry visa. Ensure all your documents are ready and all the requirements are fully met before applying. We wish you success in your application.