To be eligible for Ancestry Visa, you must qualify for below criteria:

• For the UK Ancestry Visa, it is important understand how to meet a set of specific eligibility requirements. These prerequisites serve as the foundation upon which your application is assessed and are designed to ensure that applicants can successfully integrate into the United Kingdom without relying on public funds.

Ancestral Connection

• Central to your eligibility for the UK Ancestry Visa is your ancestral lineage. You must establish a clear and verifiable connection to the UK or its associated territories. Specifically, you must show that you have a grandparent who meets one of the following criteria:
  • Born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.
  • Born before 31st March 1922 in what is now Ireland.
  • Born on a ship or aircraft that was either registered in the UK or belonged to the UK government.
• Moreover, it is noteworthy that certain exceptional circumstances also permit a claim to UK ancestry. This includes cases where the applicant or their parent was adopted or instances where the applicant’s parents or grandparents were not married.
• It is essential to emphasize that UK ancestry cannot be claimed through stepparents. The eligibility criteria for the UK Ancestry Visa are meticulously designed to ensure that individuals with genuine ancestral ties to the UK can benefit from this immigration route, fostering a connection that transcends generations and boundaries.

Age Requirement

• Firstly, you must be at least 17 years of age at the time of your intended arrival in the UK. This age restriction is in place to ensure that applicants are of a mature age to engage in work and other responsibilities.

Intent to Work in the UK

• The essence of the UK Ancestry Visa lies in your intent to work within the United Kingdom. You should be prepared to demonstrate not only your willingness but also your capability to engage in employment while residing in the UK. The flexibility of this visa category permits individuals to partake in various forms of work, ranging from full-time and part-time employment to self-employment or voluntary work.

Financial Independence

• Another key criterion revolves around financial independence. To qualify for the UK Ancestry Visa, you must demonstrate that you possess the financial means to support both yourself and any dependents accompanying you throughout your stay in the UK. This requirement is fundamental in guaranteeing that you can secure suitable housing and cover daily living expenses without seeking assistance from public funds.

Reviewing Eligibility Criteria for the Ancestry Visa

• It’s essential to recognize that the mentioned eligibility requirements are generally standard and widespread. If you are contemplating an application for the ‘Ancestry Visa,’ it’s crucial to understand that precise requirements may differ depending on your unique circumstances. Should you seek personalized professional counsel and specialized guidance tailored to your specific situation, we encourage you not to hesitate in reaching out to us. Our team of qualified immigration advisors is readily available to assist you.

To obtain professional, most up-to-date, and accurate advice on your visa application you can contact our experienced, and accredited team of immigration consultants on 020 3911 1115 or send us your query using this form or email us on ukvisa@agclservices.com or request a call back by providing your contact details here and we will get back to you asap.

Documentary Requirements for the UK Ancestry Visa Application

• In the pursuit of obtaining a UK Ancestry Visa, a crucial aspect of the application process lies in the submission of essential documents. These documents serve as the cornerstone of your application, validating your eligibility and intentions. Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of the documents you must furnish to facilitate a successful application.
• To initiate your application, you will need to provide a current passport or another valid travel document. It is essential that your passport has at least one blank page designated for the visa. Your passport serves as the primary identification and travel document during your UK stay.
• Moreover, your full birth certificate, along with those of the parent and grandparent upon whose ancestry your claim relies, plays a pivotal role in establishing your familial lineage. These documents provide tangible proof of your ancestral ties to the UK, a fundamental requirement for the UK Ancestry Visa.
• Equally vital is the submission of evidence showcasing your intent and ability to work in the UK. This can take various forms, such as job offers from potential employers or a comprehensive business plan if you plan to be self-employed. These documents substantiate your commitment to contributing to the UK’s workforce.
• Furthermore, you must demonstrate your financial capability to support yourself and any dependents accompanying you during your UK stay. This requirement underscores your capacity to maintain an adequate standard of living without reliance on public funds. To meet this criterion, you must furnish bank statements or financial evidence dated within 31 days from your application submission date.
• In summary, the compilation and submission of the aforementioned documents are integral to the successful processing of your UK Ancestry Visa application. Each document serves a unique purpose in substantiating your eligibility and commitment to the UK’s requirements for this immigration pathway, paving the way for a fulfilling and legally compliant stay in the United Kingdom.

Additional Documents Based on Circumstances

• Depending on your unique circumstances, additional documents may be necessary to fortify your application:
  • If your parents or grandparents have undergone a name change since birth, evidence such as marriage or civil partnership certificates or a deed poll should be provided.
  • In cases of adoption, you must submit legal adoption papers if either you or your parents are adoptees.
  • Individuals hailing from countries where tuberculosis testing is mandatory must furnish their tuberculosis test results as part of their application.
  • If your spouse or civil partner intends to join you in the UK, you will be required to present your marriage certificate or civil partnership registration document as part of the family reunion process.

The Significance of Accurate Documentation

• In simple terms, getting your UK Ancestry Visa relies heavily on having the right documentation and information. Each piece of document you provide has a specific job—it proves you’re eligible and committed to the rules of the UK visa. This way, you can enjoy your stay in the United Kingdom without any legal issues.

How Our Immigration Experts Can Assist You:

• At AGCL Services, we’re experts in UK immigration, and we’ve helped many people successfully get their UK Ancestry Visa. We’re here to make sure you have all the right documents and that your application is complete and accurate. Plus, we offer guidance and support every step of the way, making the visa application process a lot easier for you.

Simplifying Your UK Ancestry Visa Application Process

• Applying for a UK Ancestry Visa might seem like a complex task, but we’re here to make it easier for you. It all starts with gathering your important documents, such as proof of your ancestral connections, your identity, and your financial situation. These documents are the foundation of your application.
• If you’re considering applying on your own, you can follow the online steps provided on the UK Home Office’s website. These steps may include filling out various online forms, scheduling an appointment, submitting your identity and other documents, or visiting the nearest visa application centre to have your biometrics checked. It’s crucial to follow these steps in the correct order and meet the specified deadlines. However, these tasks can be daunting, and any mistakes or omissions could lead to application rejection, causing significant time and financial costs.
• This is where the professional assistance of our experienced consultants becomes invaluable.

Timing Your UK Ancestry Visa Application

• Timing is crucial when it comes to applying for a UK Ancestry Visa. To ensure a smooth process and minimize waiting times, it’s essential to understand when and how long it takes to receive a decision on your application.

Early Application Window

• You can initiate your UK Ancestry Visa application as early as 3 months before your intended travel date to the United Kingdom. This early application window provides you with ample time to gather the required documentation and complete the necessary steps, ensuring that you are well-prepared for your journey.

Efficiency in Decision-Making

• After submitting your application online and successfully completing the identity verification process, along with providing all the necessary documents, you can typically expect to receive a decision within a reasonable timeframe. In most cases, applicants receive a decision on their UK Ancestry Visa application within 3 weeks.
• Please note that these processing times are indicative, and it could be varied or take longer than standard applicable time depending on individual circumstances or due to some reasons i.e., missing documents, you may be asked to appear for interview, your criminal conviction, or they need more time to verify your documents.

Duration of Stay on a UK Ancestry Visa

• Upon successfully obtaining a UK Ancestry Visa, you will be eligible to reside in the UK for a period of 5 years. This duration provides you with a substantial period to live, work, and establish yourself in the United Kingdom, fostering a sense of stability and belonging.

Extending Your Stay or Settling Permanently

• As your initial 5-year stay approaches its end, you have two primary options to consider. You can apply to extend your visa for an additional 5 years, granting you continued access to the opportunities and benefits offered in the UK. Alternatively, if you meet the relevant requirements, you can apply to settle permanently in the UK by seeking ‘indefinite leave to remain.’ This signifies a long-term commitment to the country and opens doors to various benefits and privileges associated with permanent residency.

Visa Duration after Extending your visa

•  If you intend to stay in the UK beyond your initial visa period, you can renew your visa multiple times as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for extensions.
• Family Member Visas: It’s important to note that if you extend your visa, the visas of your partner or child will not be automatically extended. Their visas will remain valid until their original expiry dates. They have the option to apply for an extension either simultaneously with you or at any time before their current visas expire.

Please note that this is just a general overview of the visa validity and extension options. Please discuss your case with one of our experienced consultants for more information and obtain specific guidance around your case.

Navigating the Financial Aspect of the UK Ancestry Visa Application

• When considering a UK Ancestry Visa application, it’s essential to be aware of the associated fees and financial obligations. A clear understanding of the costs involved ensures a smooth and well-prepared application process.

Visa Application Fee

• To apply for a UK Ancestry Visa, you will be required to pay a fee of £637.

Healthcare Surcharge Considerations

• In addition to the visa application fee, you may also be obligated to pay a healthcare surcharge as part of your application. The healthcare surcharge contributes to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK and grants you access to healthcare services during your stay. The specific amount you are required to pay depends on various factors, such as your visa type and the duration of your stay. It is advisable to check the exact healthcare surcharge amount applicable to your situation before commencing your application.

Potential Other Charges

• Priority Service: This service costs an additional £500 with a decision on your application within 5 working days.
• Super Priority Service: It costs £1,000 with a decision on your application by the end of the next working day
  • Please note that these fees are in addition to the standard visa application fee. The Priority and Super Priority services are designed to speed up the visa application process. However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that your application will be processed within the specified timeframe.
• Translation fees: If you need to have any documents translated into English, you will need to pay for the translation service.
• Courier fees: If you need to have your passport or documents couriered to you, you will need to pay for the courier service.
• English language test fees
• Tuberculosis test fees
• Medical certificate fees
• Police clearance certificate fees

Extending Your UK Ancestry Visa: A Comprehensive Guide

• Extending your UK Ancestry Visa is an option that allows you to continue your stay in the UK for an additional 5 years, provided you meet the necessary eligibility criteria. It’s important to note that you must apply for this extension before your current visa expires.

Flexible Extension Opportunities

• One of the notable advantages of the UK Ancestry Visa is its flexibility when it comes to extensions. You can apply to extend your visa as many times as you need, as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements. This means you can enjoy the benefits of living and working in the UK without the need to constantly change your immigration status.

Permanent Settlement in the UK

• If you have lived in the UK for a continuous period of 5 years on this visa, you also have the option to apply for permanent settlement, known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’ (ILR). This offers a pathway to long-term residency in the UK, with the potential to access various rights and privileges associated with permanent residents.

Dependent Visas and Their Renewal

• It’s important to note that the extension of your UK Ancestry Visa does not automatically extend the visas of your partner or dependent children. Their visas will remain valid until their original end date. To ensure their continued stay in the UK, they can either apply for their extensions at the same time as you or before their current visas expire. This flexibility allows families to make coordinated arrangements for their visa renewals.

Financial Obligations for Extension

• When applying for an extension of your UK Ancestry Visa, you will need to consider the associated fees. For each person applying, you must pay the £1,048 application fee. Additionally, you will be required to pay the healthcare surcharge, the exact amount of which depends on your individual circumstances.

Post-Application Considerations

• After you have submitted your extension application, you can remain in the UK until a decision is made on your case, as long as you applied before the expiration of your last visa. It is essential to refrain from traveling outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man until a decision is reached. Leaving the designated area before a decision is made can result in the withdrawal of your application.

Timelines for Decision-Making

• Typically, applicants can expect to receive a decision on their visa extension within 8 weeks. However, it’s important to note that some applications may be more complex and require additional time for processing. Factors that can contribute to longer processing times include the need for document verification, the necessity of attending an interview, or specific personal circumstances, such as having a criminal conviction.

Q1.  Can I apply for a UK Ancestry Visa if my parents or grandparents were not married?

Yes, you can still claim UK ancestry even if your parents or grandparents were not married. The eligibility criteria do not require marital status.

Q.2  How long can I stay in the UK on a UK Ancestry Visa?

Initially, you can stay in the UK for 5 years with a UK Ancestry Visa.

Q.3  Can Dependent Partners and Children Extend or Switch to a UK Ancestry Visa While in the UK?

Extending or Switching Visa Validity for Dependents: If you are considering extending or switching your UK Ancestry Visa, the good news is that your partner or child’s existing visa will remain valid until its original expiration date. To ensure their continued stay in the UK, your partner or child can apply to extend or switch their visa category. There are two ways to do this:

1. 1. Applying Together: Your partner or child can choose to apply for their visa extension or switch to a UK Ancestry Visa at the same time as you. This synchronized approach allows families to align their visa statuses and ensures uninterrupted residency in the UK.
   2. Before Current Visa Expires: Alternatively, your partner or child can opt to apply for their extension or switch at any time before the expiration of their current visa. This flexibility allows individuals to make suitable arrangements based on their specific circumstances and timelines.

Eligibility and Exceptions: Here are some important eligibility criteria and exceptions to be aware of:

• • Children who have reached the age of 18 during your stay in the UK are eligible to apply.
  • However, individuals currently in the UK on specific visa categories cannot apply to switch to a UK Ancestry Visa from within the country. These restricted categories include those on a visitor visa, Short-term study visa, Parent of a Child Student visa, Seasonal Worker visa, Domestic Workers in a Private Household visa, immigration bail, or individuals granted permission to stay outside immigration rules (e.g., on compassionate grounds).
  • In such cases, applicants must exit the UK and apply for a UK Ancestry Visa from abroad, following the prescribed procedures.
• Special Considerations for Students: For dependent partners and children currently in the UK on a Student visa, the switching process may have additional requirements. To be eligible for switching, they must meet one of the following conditions:

1. Course Completion: They have successfully completed the course they were initially sponsored to study in the UK.
2. PhD Studies: They have pursued doctoral studies for a minimum of 24 months.

Q.4 Can I work in any job with a UK Ancestry Visa?

Yes, you can work in any job, at any skill level, with a UK Ancestry Visa. This includes full-time or part-time work, self-employment, or voluntary work.

Q.5  Can my family members join me in the UK on a UK Ancestry Visa?

Yes, your eligible dependents, including your partner and dependent children, can accompany or join you in the UK. Separate guidance is available for considering their applications.

Q.6  What happens after the initial 5-year period on a UK Ancestry Visa?

After 5 years, you have two options. You can apply to extend your visa for another 5 years or apply for ‘indefinite leave to remain’ (permanent settlement) in the UK, provided you meet the relevant requirements.

Q.7  Can I claim UK ancestry through stepparents?

No, UK ancestry cannot be claimed through stepparents. The eligibility criteria require a direct ancestral link to the UK through a grandparent.

Q.8  Do I need to submit tuberculosis test results with my application?

You may need to submit tuberculosis test results if you are from a country where taking a TB test is mandatory. Check the specific requirements based on your nationality.

Q.9  Can I apply for a UK Ancestry Visa from within the UK?

No, you must apply for a UK Ancestry Visa from outside the UK, in your home country or a country where you are legally residing.

Q.10  What am I allowed to and not allowed to do while I am on UK Ancestry Visa?

 Permissible Activities:

• Bringing Your Family: A UK Ancestry Visa not only benefits you but also extends privileges to your family. You have the right to bring your partner or child to join you in the UK, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness during your stay. This provision ensures that your loved ones can share in your UK experience, creating lasting memories together.
• Work Flexibility: Your work activities can encompass paid or voluntary positions, full-time or part-time roles, and positions in self-employment or traditional employment settings. This versatility allows you to explore diverse career opportunities and contribute to the UK’s workforce.
• Study Opportunities: If you’re inclined toward educational pursuits, you have the option to study in the UK while holding a UK Ancestry Visa. This opens doors to a wide range of academic programs and institutions, enabling personal and professional growth.

Restricted Activities:

• No Switching: If you entered the UK on a different type of visa, you cannot switch to a UK Ancestry Visa from within the country. It’s crucial to apply for this visa category from your home country or another location where you have legal residence.
• Ineligibility for Public Funds: As a UK Ancestry Visa holder, you are not eligible to receive public funds. This means you cannot access certain government welfare programs or financial assistance.

Q.11  What are the allowed and not-allowed activities for my partner and children when on Ancestry Visa in the UK?

Allowed activities:

• Work Authorization: They have the right to work in the UK, with the exception of roles as sportspersons or coaches. This provision allows them to pursue various career opportunities and contribute to the country’s workforce.
• Educational Pursuits: Your loved ones can also engage in educational endeavours by studying in the UK. This opens doors to a diverse range of academic programs and institutions, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Freedom to Travel Abroad: Your partner and child can travel abroad from the UK and return without any hindrance. This flexibility enables them to maintain connections with their home country or explore international destinations.
• Settlement in the UK: Moreover, there is an opportunity for them to apply for permanent settlement in the UK, often referred to as ‘indefinite leave to remain.’ To be eligible, they must have resided in the UK for a continuous period of 5 years and meet other relevant eligibility criteria. This option provides a pathway to long-term residency and the potential to access various rights and privileges associated with permanent residents.

Not Allowed Activities:

• Ineligibility for Most Benefits: They are generally not eligible to apply for most benefits, including public funds. This means they cannot access certain government welfare programs or financial assistance.
• State Pension Inaccessibility: Your partner and child are also unable to apply for the State Pension. It’s important to consider alternative retirement plans and financial arrangements.

Navigating the UK immigration system can be complex, and it’s essential to have expert guidance throughout the process. At AGCL Services, our immigration experts are here to guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand visa fees, additional charges, priority services, FAQs, and the advantages of holding this visa and are committed to helping you achieve your immigration goals and ensuring a smooth and successful visa application procession for you.