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A UK Ancestry visa lets you live and work in the UK for up to five years, and leave and re-enter the country whenever you choose. This visa can also lead to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and thereafter British citizenship. 

How to get a UK Ancestry visa

You can apply for an Ancestry visa if you:

  • You are a citizen of Australia or New Zealand (and other Commonwealth citizens)
  • Have a grandparent who was born in the UK, or in the Republic of Ireland before 31st March 1922
  • Are 17 years or older, there is no upper age limit
  • Intend to work in the UK, (you don’t need to have a job in place when you apply)
  • Can financially support yourself and your dependants without needing public funding

This visa allows you to bring your spouse, partner and/or dependant children with you to the UK. They will be able to stay for the same period as you. Your spouse/partner may also work without restrictions in the UK.

How much does a UK Ancestry visa cost?

The visa fee is £682, and the Immigration Health Surcharge is £1,035 per year the visa is issued for bringing it to a total of £5,175.

How to apply for UK Ancestry visa

Australian and New Zealand applicants submit applications online via the UK government website and should be submitted no earlier than three months before your intended travel date. You’ll need to provide proof of ancestry (e.g., your grandparent’s birth certificate), biometric information and evidence of sufficient funds. Processing usually takes three weeks, or faster with priority service.

Our team at Sable International can guide you through every step for a seamless experience.

Free visa assessment

Extending your Ancestry visa

If you do not meet the requirements for indefinite leave to remain after five years on the Ancestry visa, you also have the option of extending your visa. This is great if your goal is to obtain indefinite leave to remain and eventually become a UK citizen.

Indefinite leave to remain and British citizenship

Ancestry visas are valid for five years. Once you’ve lived in the UK continuously and you have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months of the last five years you may apply for indefinite leave to remain.

Once you’ve spent 12 months on ILR, you may be eligible to apply to naturalise as a British citizen.

UK visa assessment

Answer a few questions and we'll let you know if you're eligible to live and work in the UK. It takes less than five minutes and it's free of charge or obligation.