UK Ancestry Visa

The UK Ancestry Visa allows eligible Commonwealth citizens to live, work and study in the United Kingdom based on their family heritage. This route is available to individuals who can prove that one of their grandparents was born in the UK.

The ancestry visa offers a flexible immigration pathway and can lead to settlement in the UK. At Mowbray Advisory, we provide clear, OISC-regulated advice to help you understand whether you qualify and how to prepare a strong application.

Who Can Apply for a UK Ancestry Visa?

You may be eligible for a UK ancestry visa if:

  • You are a Commonwealth citizen
  • You are at least 17 years old
  • One of your grandparents was born in the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man
  • You intend to work in the UK
  • You can support yourself without recourse to public funds

This visa is not available to all nationalities, and eligibility depends on your family history and personal circumstances.

Evidence of UK Ancestry

To apply successfully, you’ll need to provide documentary evidence showing:

Your Grandparent’s Birth

An official birth certificate proving your grandparent was born in the UK or qualifying territory.

Family Lineage

Documents linking you to your parent and grandparent, such as birth and marriage certificates.

Intention to Work

Evidence that you plan to work in the UK, such as job offers, applications, or career plans.

Financial Support

Proof that you can maintain and accommodate yourself in the UK without public funds.

Careful preparation of ancestry evidence is essential, particularly where documents are incomplete or originate from overseas.

What the UK Ancestry Visa Allows

A successful UK ancestry visa application allows you to:

  • Live and work in the UK without restrictions
  • Study in the UK
  • Bring eligible dependants with you
  • Apply for settlement (ILR) after the qualifying period

This makes the ancestry visa one of the more flexible long-term routes available under UK immigration rules.

Common Issues with Ancestry Visa Applications

Applications may be delayed or refused due to:

  • Missing or inconsistent ancestry documentation
  • Unclear family lineage
  • Failure to demonstrate an intention to work
  • Inadequate financial evidence

We help identify and address these issues before submission to reduce unnecessary delays.

How We Can Help

We support clients throughout the UK ancestry visa process, including:

  • Assessing your eligibility under the ancestry rules
  • Advising on acceptable family and ancestry documents
  • Reviewing and organising supporting evidence
  • Preparing and submitting your application
  • Advising on extensions and settlement options

You’ll work directly with an adviser who understands the requirements of this route.

Speak to an Immigration Adviser

If you’re planning to apply for a UK Ancestry Visa and want to avoid unnecessary delays or common pitfalls, we can help.
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