British Citizenship by descent is when an individual born abroad can acquire British Citizenship through one or both parents but cannot pass on their British Citizenship.
Who is eligible?
- If you were born before 1983: your parent must have been a citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies. They must be citizens otherwise than by descent (by birth, adoption, or naturalization).
- If you were born between 1983 and June 2006: your parents must not have been married when you were born. Your father must have been a British Citizen otherwise than by descent or working as a Crown Servant then.
- If you were born outside the UK on or after 1st June 2006: you must have resided with your parents in the UK or your British parent must have done so before.
How to apply?
By submitting an online application and submitting the relevant documentation. You will then attend a biometric appointment.
What is British Citizenship by double descent?
This is through your UK-born grandparent. To be eligible, the following could apply:
- If born after 1983: your UK-born grandfather must have been in Crown Service at the time of your parent’s birth. Additionally, you or your parent must have been born in a former British colony.
- If you were born before 1983, your paternal grandfather was born in the UK, a parent was in the Crown Service at time of birth and your parents married before 1949.
- If you were born before 1949, your grandparent or parent was married to a British man before 1949 and your parent born in a former British colony.
How can we help?
We will support your every step, from gathering documentation to submitting the application.
