As an experienced UK immigration advisor, I’ve helped countless clients navigate the UK Ancestry Visa process. If you’re a Commonwealth citizen with a grandparent born in the UK, this visa offers a valuable route to live, work, and eventually settle in the United Kingdom.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from eligibility and documentation to costs and the pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British citizenship.
What Is the UK Ancestry Visa?
The UK Ancestry Visa is a unique immigration route that allows eligible Commonwealth citizens to live, work, and study in the UK for up to five years — based on a UK-born grandparent.
It’s one of the most flexible work visas available and can lead to permanent residency and British citizenship.
Key Benefits:
- Freedom to live and work in any profession without sponsorship.
- Access to study opportunities without restrictions.
- Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and citizenship.
- Ability to bring eligible dependents with full work and study rights.
Whether you’re looking to reconnect with your roots, advance your career, or build a new life in the UK, the Ancestry Visa is a powerful option.
UK Ancestry Visa Eligibility Requirements (2025)
To qualify, you must meet all the following criteria:
- Commonwealth Citizenship: You must hold citizenship from a Commonwealth country such as Nigeria, India, Australia, Canada, South Africa, or New Zealand.
- UK-born Grandparent: At least one of your grandparents must have been born in the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or in Ireland before 31 March 1922.
- Age: You must be 18 years or older at the time of application.
- Work Intentions: You must intend to work in the UK and show evidence (e.g., job applications, interview invites, CVs).
- Financial Self-Sufficiency: You must prove you can support yourself and any dependents without claiming public funds.
- Valid Passport: A valid passport covering the entire period of your intended stay.
Note: You do not need to have a job offer before applying, but your intent to work must be clearly demonstrated.
Required Documents for a Strong Application
Your application must be supported by official, verifiable documentation:
- Your full birth certificate
- Parent’s birth certificate
- Grandparent’s UK birth certificate
- Marriage certificates (if the ancestral link is through a married name)
- Valid Commonwealth passport
- Proof of intent to work (CV, job applications, offer letters)
- Bank statements or financial proof showing you can support yourself
- Accommodation details for where you will live in the UK
All documents should be in English or officially translated.
Step-by-Step UK Ancestry Visa Application Process (2025)
Here’s how to apply:
Step 1: Apply Online
Submit your visa application via the UK Home Office website.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee
As of 2025, the visa fee is £531. This must be paid at the time of application.
Step 3: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
You’ll need to pay £624 per year upfront for five years (£3,120 total). This gives you full access to the UK’s NHS.
Step 4: Book and Attend Your Biometric Appointment
Visit a UK visa application centre in your country to provide your fingerprints and a photo. In Nigeria, centres are located in Lagos and Abuja.
Step 5: Submit Your Supporting Documents
Upload or present all required documents, as outlined above.
Step 6: Await a Decision
Processing typically takes 3 weeks for overseas applicants. You’ll receive a visa vignette in your passport once approved.
Extension & Settlement: What Happens After 5 Years?
Extending Your Ancestry Visa
You can apply to extend your visa before it expires. You must still meet the original requirements, and show continued employment or active job-seeking.
Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After five continuous years in the UK, you may qualify for ILR if you:
- Have not breached any visa conditions.
- Pass the Life in the UK Test.
- Meet the continuous residence and employment requirements.
Apply for British Citizenship
Once you’ve held ILR for 12 months, you may apply for British citizenship and a UK passport — provided you meet good character and residency criteria.
Can I Bring My Family on a UK Ancestry Visa?
Yes, the Ancestry Visa allows you to bring:
- Spouse or partner
- Dependent children under 18
They must apply as dependents and you must show you can support them financially. They’ll have full rights to work and study in the UK.
Apply also: Get UK Work Visa through Skilled Worker Visa Program
UK Ancestry Visa Fees & Costs (2025)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | £531 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (5 years) | £3,120 |
| Biometric Appointment | Varies by location |
| Optional Priority Service | Extra £500+ |
Additional costs may include translations, notarisation, or courier services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the Ancestry Visa from inside the UK?
No. You must apply from outside the UK — typically your home country.
2. Do I need a job offer to qualify?
No. A job offer is not required, but you must demonstrate clear intent to work.
3. Can I study on this visa?
Yes. There are no restrictions on study while on the Ancestry Visa.
4. What if my grandparent was adopted?
Adopted grandparents count as long as proper legal documentation exists.
5. Does this visa lead to citizenship?
Yes. After 5 years on the visa + 1 year with ILR, you can apply for British citizenship.
Final Thoughts from an Immigration Advisor
The UK Ancestry Visa continues to be one of the most flexible and rewarding immigration routes for Commonwealth citizens. Whether you’re pursuing employment, education, or permanent settlement in the UK, this visa provides a strong foundation for long-term success.
To maximise your chances of approval, work with a trusted immigration professional, prepare your documents carefully, and demonstrate a genuine intent to work and contribute to life in the UK.