Ancestry Visa Requirements: What You Need to Know

REquirements made easy

If you’re looking to apply for a UK Ancestry Visa, having the right documents and information is crucial. With the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success and avoid common mistakes. On this page, we’ll go over what you need to know and what you need to have ready for a smooth and successful application process.

Documents required

The first step in the Ancestry Visa application process is gathering the necessary documents. Some of the most important documents include:

- Proof of UK ancestry: This could be a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other official document showing your direct connection to a grandparent born in the UK.
- Passport: You’ll need a valid South African passport to apply for the Ancestry Visa.
- Biometric information: You’ll need to provide your fingerprints and a digital photo as part of the application process.
- Financial information: You’ll need to show that you have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds.
- Accommodation and travel arrangements: You’ll need to show that you have a place to stay and a plan for how you’ll get to the UK.

avoiding common mistakes

The UK Ancestry Visa application process can be complex, and making even a small mistake can delay your application or result in a denial. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

- Incorrect or missing documents: Make sure you have all the required documents and that they are up-to-date and accurate.
- Lack of financial stability: The UK requires you to show that you can support yourself without relying on public funds, so make sure you have enough savings or a solid plan for how you’ll support yourself in the UK.
- Unclear travel and accommodation plans: Make sure you have a solid plan for how you’ll get to the UK and where you’ll stay once you arrive.
- Not meeting the eligibility criteria: Before applying, make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria for the UK Ancestry Visa.

By understanding the documents and information required and avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll increase your chances of success and make the Ancestry Visa application process as smooth as possible.

UK Ancestry Visa
eligibility	requirements	processing times
ancestry visa fees	ancestry visa extension	British passport vs Ancestry visa
free VISA assessment	free birth certificate assessment

experts through experience

At Move Up, we understand the complex nature of a UK Ancestry Visa application and the importance of having all required documents and information in order. Our team of experienced professionals is here to help you navigate the process and increase your chances of success. We specialize in providing comprehensive representation services to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for our clients.

We take care of all the qualifying documents needed for your UK Ancestry Visa application and perform a thorough proofreading to ensure accuracy. Our team will upload all your documents on your behalf to the government’s application portal, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.

We understand the significance of a successful first-time submission, which is why we guarantee our services. Our expertise and knowledge of the UK Ancestry Visa process means that we can address any potential roadblocks and ensure that your application is processed smoothly and efficiently.

At Move Up, we are committed to providing the highest level of service and ensuring that our clients receive the support they need throughout the entire UK Ancestry Visa application process. Let us help you achieve your dream of joining your family in the UK and take the first step towards a brighter future. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your UK Ancestry Visa application.

Discover the Process of Applying for a UK Ancestry Visa

The UK Ancestry visa is designed for South Africans with a grandparent born in the UK. This visa offers the opportunity to live, work, and study in the UK, and eventually settle there permanently. However, many applicants are often curious about the process of obtaining a British passport through the Ancestry visa.

In this guide, we will cover the steps involved in the Ancestry visa process, including:

- Entry Clearance (Applied for in South Africa)
- Extension of the Ancestry visa (Applied for in the UK)
- Permanent Residence (Applied for in the UK)
- British Nationalization (Applied for in the UK)

Entry Clearance (Applied for in South Africa)

The first stage of the Ancestry visa process is the entry clearance, also known as “Limited Leave to Remain.” This stage involves applying for permission to enter the UK with the intention of living, working, studying, and eventually settling there permanently. The initial entry clearance is granted for a period of 5 years.

Extension of the Ancestry visa (Applied for in the UK)

The extension of the Ancestry visa, also known as “Further Leave to Remain,” applies to cases where the applicant does not meet the immigration definition of “continual UK residence” for the full 5-year period. This stage involves applying for an extension of the Ancestry visa, with no restrictions on the number of times the applicant can apply for an extension.

Permanent Residence (Applied for in the UK)

The next stage is permanent residence, also known as “Indefinite Leave to Remain.” This stage is available to applicants who meet the immigration definition of “continued UK residence” for the full 5-year continuous period. Once granted, the applicant will have permission to remain in the UK as a resident, with a visa that is valid for the duration of their South African passport.

British Nationalization (Applied for in the UK)

After 6 continuous years of UK residence, the applicant can apply for British citizenship and obtain a British passport. The same process applies to the dependents of the Ancestry visa holder, who can also become British citizens through UK residency.

Please note that “Continual UK Residence” is defined as spending more than 185 days in the UK, which is considered the majority of the year. This also allows for 180 days of travel outside the UK, making it perfect for those looking to experience different seasons in different parts of the world.

We hope this guide has helped you understand the process of obtaining a UK Ancestry visa and the steps involved in obtaining a British passport through the Ancestry visa. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

cost breakdown

To further help, a cost breakdown of the UK Ancestry visa looks like this:

The next step

The next step from here is to verify your eligibilty. This part of the application is often the largest time hurdle in these cases. More specifically birth certificates.

When we speak to fellow South Africans and ask “what birth certificates do you have?”, almost all prospective clients answer: “I’ve got all my documents”.

Only to find out that they have the incorrect versions and need to request the right ones.

To help address this hurdle, we have put together a free birth certificate assessment. You can upload what documents you have on hand and free of charge we can confirm if you have the right versions.

Free Birth Certificate Assessment

Alternatively, you can get in touch with our friendly consultants and get a formal breakdown of costs and processing times:

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