The UK Ancestry visa allows Commonwealth citizens and certain British nationals with a UK-born grandparent to live and work in the UK. Many applicants have questions about eligibility, finances, and the path to settlement or citizenship. Here are the most commonly asked questions about the UK Ancestry visa answered for 2025.
What is the 5 year rule in the UK?
The 5-year rule refers to the period an individual must legally reside in the UK under an Ancestry visa before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Explanation: The Ancestry visa is currently a direct “route to settlement,” allowing an application for ILR after five years of continuous lawful residence. The UK government has proposed increasing the standard settlement period from 5 to 10 years for many visa categories. As of late 2025, the 5-year path for Ancestry visa holders remains current, but applicants must check the latest guidance before applying.
What is the 5 year child rule in the UK?
This rule allows a child who has lived continuously in the UK for five years to register as a British citizen.
Explanation: It applies specifically to children born outside the UK. Proper documentation of residence and guardianship is required. This rule is distinct from dependency or family visa requirements.
How do you prove you were in the UK exactly 5 years?
Provide evidence such as passports with entry/exit stamps, utility bills, rental agreements, bank statements, and employment records.
Explanation: These documents demonstrate continuous residence without long absences. Accuracy and consistency are essential for ILR applications.
What happens after 5 years stay in the UK?
After five years, Ancestry visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Explanation: Once ILR is granted, you may work, study, and live in the UK without restrictions. After holding ILR for one year, you may apply for British citizenship. While the pathway remains 5 years + 1 year, prospective applicants should be aware that policy proposals could extend settlement requirements in the future.
What is the new child rule in the UK 2025?
The updated 2025 child rule allows children residing in the UK under qualifying visas to register as British citizens after meeting specific residence and guardianship requirements.
Explanation: This provides a clear pathway to citizenship for children who have grown up in the UK.
What rights does a 5-year-old have?
A 5-year-old in the UK has rights to education, healthcare, protection from abuse, and access to public services.
Explanation: These rights apply regardless of visa status, ensuring all children in the UK are protected and supported.
How much money do you need to apply for an Ancestry visa in the UK?
You must meet the Maintenance Requirement, usually showing at least £1,270–£1,600 to cover initial living costs for the first few months without relying on public funds.
Explanation: Proof of stable funds ensures you can support yourself upon arrival. These funds must have been held in your account for at least 90 continuous days before the application.
How much does an Ancestry visa in the UK cost?
As of 2025, the application fee is £682. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is £1,035 per year for adults. For a 5-year visa, this totals £5,175 for IHS, making the combined minimum cost £5,857.
Explanation: All fees are non-refundable and subject to change. Always verify the latest figures on official sources before applying.
What is the minimum bank balance required for a UK visa?
Applicants must show proof of funds of around £1,270–£1,600 (or more) that are genuinely available to them.
Explanation: Critically, this money must have been held for a continuous 90-day period ending on the date of application. This proves that the funds are stable and not borrowed.
How do I qualify for an Ancestry visa to the UK?
You must be a Commonwealth citizen or a British national (including BOTC, BOC, BN(O), British Subjects, or citizens of Zimbabwe), over 17, have a UK-born grandparent, and show the ability to work and support yourself.
Explanation: Proper documentation proving ancestry, age, and financial stability is essential.
How to prove Ancestry for UK visa?
Provide birth certificates, marriage certificates, and official documents linking you to a UK-born grandparent.
Explanation: All documents must be consistent and verifiable. DNA tests can supplement but are not accepted as primary evidence.
Can I get UK citizenship through ancestry?
Yes, after completing the Ancestry visa route, ILR, and residency requirements.
Explanation: Citizenship is not automatic; following the legal pathway ensures eligibility.
How long does it take to become a British citizen by descent?
Typically six years: five years on an Ancestry visa plus one year after obtaining ILR.
Explanation: This timeline is current, but policy changes could affect future applicants.
Is there a limit to citizenship by descent?
Yes, generally only the first generation born abroad from a UK citizen can claim citizenship automatically. Later generations must use visa routes like the Ancestry visa.
Explanation: This ensures legal clarity and maintains the generational structure of citizenship rights.
Why is the UK Ancestry visa so expensive?
Costs include the visa application fee, IHS, and potential document/legal costs.
Explanation: The IHS covers NHS access and is mandatory. Fees reflect administrative and healthcare coverage costs.
Can you claim British citizenship through Ancestry?
Yes, after completing the Ancestry visa route, ILR, and meeting residency requirements.
Explanation: Direct citizenship is not available; the visa pathway ensures lawful settlement before naturalisation.
What is the easiest way to get English citizenship?
The fastest route is through an Ancestry visa, marriage to a UK citizen, or other qualifying visas leading to ILR.
Explanation: The Ancestry visa is straightforward if eligibility criteria are met, especially for Commonwealth citizens or qualifying British nationals.
How to qualify for a UK Ancestry Visa?
Meet all eligibility criteria: age over 17, UK-born grandparent, financial self-sufficiency, and nationality requirements.
Explanation: Applicants must provide complete and authentic documentation to avoid refusals.
How much money do you need for an Ancestry visa?
Total minimum cost is £5,857 for a 5-year visa (visa fee + IHS). Maintenance Requirement is separate, typically £1,270–£1,600.
Explanation: Ensure sufficient funds for initial living expenses and overall visa costs.
Which is better, 23 & Me or Ancestry?
For UK Ancestry visa purposes, official genealogical documents are required. DNA tests can supplement but are not sufficient.
Explanation: Certificates proving your UK-born grandparent remain the primary evidence.
Can I work for any employer on an Ancestry visa?
Yes, the UK Ancestry visa allows you to work for any employer, start your own business, or be self-employed.
Explanation: Unlike some other visa types with employment restrictions, the Ancestry visa provides full work flexibility, allowing you to pursue any legal occupation or business venture in the UK.
Can I study while on an Ancestry visa?
Yes, you can study full-time or part-time while on an Ancestry visa.
Explanation: The visa imposes no restriction on education, meaning you can enroll in schools, colleges, or universities. This flexibility makes it ideal for those who want to enhance qualifications alongside work.
Can I bring my family with me on an Ancestry visa?
Yes, you can bring your spouse or civil partner and dependent children under 18 as dependents.
Explanation: Each family member must apply as a dependent and show sufficient funds and accommodation. This ensures your family can legally live and work/study in the UK during your Ancestry visa period.
Can Ancestry visa holders travel in and out of the UK freely?
Yes, Ancestry visa holders can travel internationally, but extended absences may affect your eligibility for ILR.
Explanation: To maintain the 5-year continuous residence requirement for ILR, you should avoid long absences (generally more than 180 days in any 12-month period). Short trips for work, study, or family visits are allowed without affecting your visa status.
How LawSentis Can Help
LawSentis provides expert guidance for UK Ancestry visa applications, ensuring eligibility verification, document preparation, and smooth navigation of the process. Our UK-based, IAA Level 3 regulated team assists clients in proving ancestry, meeting financial and residency requirements, and progressing toward ILR and citizenship efficiently.