British Citizenship by Descent

British citizenship by descent refers to the category of British nationality acquired by a person born outside the UK to a parent who is a British citizen.

You may be eligible to apply for British citizenship by descent if you were born outside the UK to a parent who is a British citizen by birth or by naturalisation (but not through descent themselves). However, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria and you must carefully review each requirement and gather the necessary evidence to support your application.

Applying for British citizenship by descent can be a complex and time-consuming process. It is recommended to seek professional assistance to ensure your application is completed accurately and efficiently.

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, our experienced team can guide you through the entire process, answering any questions you may have and providing expert assistance to maximise the chances of a successful application.

If you require professional assistance with your British citizenship by descent application, Moeen & Co. Solicitors is here to help. Contact us at 0203 959 7755 to speak with our experienced team of immigration specialists.

Table of Contents

1. What is British citizenship by descent?
2. What are the benefits of British citizenship?
3. Who is eligible to apply for British citizenship by descent?
4. What is the process to apply for British citizenship by descent?
5. How long does it take to process a British citizenship application?
6. How can solicitors help with British citizenship applications?
7. Frequently asked questions
8. Contact immigration solicitors in London

What is British citizenship by descent?

British citizenship by descent refers to the acquisition of British nationality based on ancestry. If you have a parent or grandparent who was a British citizen at the time of your birth, you may be eligible to claim British citizenship by descent. This means that you can obtain British nationality even if you were born outside of the United Kingdom.

Parentage-Based

British citizenship by descent is acquired when a child is born outside the UK to a parent (or parents) who is a British citizen. This method of acquiring citizenship relies on the British citizenship of the parent(s) rather than the location of birth.

Not Automatically Transmissible

British citizenship by descent cannot be automatically passed to the next generation born abroad. There are specific circumstances under which children born abroad to British citizens by descent can acquire citizenship, often involving registration and meeting certain conditions.

Generation Limit

Generally, only the first generation born abroad to British citizens can acquire British citizenship by descent automatically. Subsequent generations born abroad may acquire it through registration under certain conditions but are not entitled to it automatically.

What are the benefits of British citizenship?

Gaining British citizenship by descent brings with it numerous advantages and opportunities. Being a British citizen grants you various privileges and rights that can significantly enhance your life in the United Kingdom.

Privileges of British citizenship:

• Right to live and work in the United Kingdom without restrictions
• Access to social welfare benefits and healthcare
• Visa-free travel to numerous countries around the world
• Ability to vote and participate in democratic processes
• Opportunity to apply for a British passport
• Possibility of sponsoring family members to join you in the UK

Who is eligible to apply for British citizenship by descent?

To qualify for British citizenship by descent, you must meet certain requirements based on where and when you were born, and your parents' circumstances.

You were born on or after 1 July 2006

You're automatically a British citizen if you were born outside the UK on or after 1 July 2006 and your mother or father was a British citizen when you were born. 

At the time of your birth, if your father was a British citizen and your mother was married to someone else, you may not automatically be a British citizen.

You were born between 1983 and June 2006 

You're automatically a British citizen if you were born outside the UK between 1983 and June 2006 and your mother or father was a British citizen when you were born (they must have been married if your father had British citizenship but your mother did not).

Your British parent could pass on their citizenship to you if they were born or adopted in the UK and given citizenship after applying for it in their own right (not based on having a British parent).

You were born before 1983 

You're automatically a British citizen if you were born outside the UK before 1 January 1983 and your father is British. When you were born, your father must have been a citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies, married to your mother and able to pass on his citizenship to you.

Your father could pass on his citizenship to you if he was born or adopted in the UK and given citizenship after applying for it in his own right (not based on having a British parent).

If you qualify for citizenship in this way, your children will not automatically become British if they're born outside the UK.

What is the process to apply for British citizenship by descent?

Applying for British citizenship by descent involves a step-by-step process that ensures a smooth and efficient application experience. Here, we will guide you through the necessary steps, including completing the application form, paying the fees, and submitting the required documents.

How long does it take to process a British citizenship application?

You should receive a decision within 6 months, once you've applied for British citizenship by descent and attended your biometric appointment.

However, complex cases or delays in document verification may extend this timeframe. It is important to submit a complete and accurate application to avoid unnecessary delays.

Frequently asked questions