SERVICES

UK Ancestry Visa

The UK Ancestry visa is an excellent visa route for Commonwealth citizens who can demonstrate a direct ancestral connection to the UK. For those who qualify, it offers a flexible and established way to live, work and build a long-term future in the UK, without the need for employer sponsorship.

Eligibility is based on historic family connections, most commonly through a UK-born grandparent. Applicants must also show an intention and ability to work in the UK and meet the Home Office’s general suitability requirements. The route permits employment, self-employment and study, and provides a clear pathway to settlement after five years’ lawful residence.

UK Ancestry applications are heavily evidence-led. Although eligibility is often strong in principle, outcomes depend on how clearly ancestral links, employment intentions and personal circumstances are evidenced and explained. Applications can be undermined by missing records, inconsistencies in historic documents, or misunderstanding how the Immigration Rules apply across different stages of the route. Careful presentation, chronology and context are therefore essential, particularly where records span several decades or multiple jurisdictions.

Who is this route for?

This route may be suitable for individuals who:

• Are Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent

• Have clear documentary evidence of ancestry

• Intend to work or be self-employed in the UK

• Are seeking a long-term route with a clear settlement pathway

Typical examples include:

• Applicants relocating to the UK for employment or self-employment

• Individuals returning to the UK with established family ties

• Those planning long-term residence rather than short-term work

This route is less suitable where ancestral evidence cannot be established, employment intentions are unclear, or suitability issues arise from immigration history.