The battle between these two visas has been taking place for quite some now. South Africans having to chose between these visas have a number of factors that need to be considered.

This is 2020’s comparison. Attached at the bottom of this page are the previous 3 versions stemming from 4 years of comparisons (now archived). The British government are constantly ammending their rules and it impacts this comparisons often.

Often South Africans find themselves trying to weigh up their options (to see which approach serves them best). We find there are cases where applicants are entitled to both visas (UK Ancestry visa and the UK Settlement visa).


WHO IS THIS COMPARISON FOR?

To best identify who this comparison applies too, it is best to first define the applicant’s “family”.

These visa cases are presented often as a family looking to relocate together. A family consists of the following:

– Partner 1: Can either have a UK born grandparent or has no birth ties to the UK.

– Partner 2: Has claim to (or has claimed) a British passport and might have a claim to UK Ancestry visa.

– Minor Dependent(s).

Partner 1 and 2 must be living in a legally recognized married like relationship. Either with a registered marriage or with ability to evidence 2 years recent married like cohabitation. More details about relationship status and its recognition (at various stages) can be found here.

In terms of minor dependent(s), this is not compulsory for this comparison to take place. This comparison can apply to couples only.

We do offer more content about family dependency for those looking for other content.

ANCESTRY CLAIM

In this comparison, either Partner 1 or Partner 2 could have a UK born grandparent. Some cases both partners have UK grandparent(s).

The key is having a UK born grandparent.

If neither partner has a UK born grandparent, this comparison doesn’t apply. We do have a colonial birth rights page for those wondering about grandparents born in former British colonies.

A “recent” change to the interpretation of rules is that the UK government does not permit South Africans that have both a UK born parent and UK born grandparent to have this choice. UK born parent means British passport entitlement (regardless of parents marital status).

If an Ancestry case is lodged and the decision makers see parents listed as UK born, the case falls under grounds of refusal.

Therefore a partner needs to only have a UK born grandparent (and not a UK born parent).

SETTLEMENT CLAIM

For this comparison to apply, Partner 2 needs to have a claim to British citizenship.

There are cases where Partner 2 has a UK born grandparent and can claim British citizenship (through double descent).

Otherwise, Partner 1 could have a UK born grandparent (and not a UK born parent) and Partner 2 could have a British passport.

Those are the two scenarios that this comparison applies too.


VISAS DEFINED

To get started, each visa is defined as followed:

UK ANCESTRY VISA (main applicant)UK SETTLEMENT VISA (main applicant)
Hereafter referred to as “ANC“.Hereafter referred to as “STL“.
Caters for South Africans that have a grandparent that was born in the UK.Caters for South Africans that can be family dependents to British passport holders.

Now that we have introduced our contestants, I need to clarify immigration terms of main applicant.

In ANC terms, the main applicant applies to the applicant that has a UK born grandparent. This allows for married like dependent, ie partner, to join and allows for minor dependents to also claim dependency to the main applicants Ancestry claim.

In STL terms, the previous “main applicant” shifts in allocation. For the STL to apply, the previous “main applicant” needs to make their claim for British citizenship. When they become British, they become defined as “sponsor”. The married like partner becomes the visas main applicant and the minors also follow suit as “dependents”.

In summary, the ANC main applicant can also be the sponsor of the STL and the married like dependent (seen as “partner”) of ANC visa becomes the main applicant of the STL visa.

Now, let’s take a look at the basics of their offerings:

 UK Ancestry Work Visa (ANC) UK Settlement Work Visa (STL)
gift

ANC caters for South Africans with UK born grandparents.

gift

STL caters for South Africans with British national immediate family member.

calendar-1-2

ANC is issued for initial 5 years.

calendar-1-2

STL is issued for initial 2.5 years.

shapes

ANC grants settlement rights (right to live and work in the UK).

shapes

STL grants settlement right (right to live and work in the UK).

user

ANC permits immediate family dependents to join main applicant.

user

STL permits immediate family dependents to join main applicant.

stopwatch-1

ANC takes 15 working days to process (standard).

stopwatch-1

STL takes 60 working days to process (standard).

justice

ANC is commonly refused when applicants supply unrecognized supporting documents and incorrect birth certificates.

justice

STL has the highest refusal rate and majority of cases are refused where British nationals do not sufficiently evidence the financial requirement.

settings-6

ANC takes 5 years of continued UK residence to earn permanent resident status. It takes 6 continuous years of UK residence to earn British nationality.

settings-6

STL takes 5 years of continued UK residence to earn permanent resident status. It takes 6 continuous years of UK residence to earn British nationality.

Before the battle begins, upfront we can already draw the following conclusions:

1. ANC (Ancestry visa) is issued initially twice as long as the STL (Settlement visa).
2. ANC is processed and issued quicker than the STL.
3. STL has the highest risk of refusal, therefore ANC has less risk.

That means we are entering a match where the ANC has 3 clear advantages over the STL.

Nothing has changed in this regard between 2016, 2018 and 2019 comparisons. ANC is the preferred option at the face of the transaction.

Ancestry vsSettlement
Visa Duration5 years (intially)2.5 years (initially)
Processing Times15 working days 60 working days
Refusal RiskLower Higher

To best compare these two categories, let us take a look at the long term view. Which visa will give more benefits? Which visa would lead to getting a British passport quickest?

LOGIC

Logic dictates that surely it should be more of an advantage for South Africans to pass through the UK border with a British national (STL) than if they claim birthrights from a distant relative (ANC). Logic would also assume that joining a British national in the UK (as a family dependent) would have more benefits.

The reality is that there are absolutely no additional benefits for South Africans for the first 5 years. Logically ANC and STL are equals. They both grant the same settlement rights*.

*Settlement rights: The right to live, work, study and relocate with a view to permanently settle in the United Kingdom.

If you choose the ANC visa, your kids will not miss out on free schooling or free health care (initially). The STL visa grants the same permission and therefore initial clearance of ANC and STL requires applicants to pay for schooling and health care upon arrival. Until permanent residence status is earned.

Only when permanent resident status is granted, can the kids qualify for free schooling and free public health care. This takes 5 years of UK residence in the both ANC and STL applications.

GET A BRITISH PASSPORT QUICKER?

Common confusion experienced here.

In ANC terms, the main applicant (and all dependents) have to earn British nationality through residence. 6 continued years of UK residence applies.

In STL terms, the sponsor (Partner 2) will have British nationality, the main applicant (Partner 1) will still need to go through the 6 continued years to earn British citizenship through residence. The minors however can earn British citizenship after the sponsor (Partner 1) has lived in the UK for 3 years (quicker way for kids to get British passports).

So, the STL visa has some benefits to minors being able to get British citizenship quicker.

In cases where only couples are applying, it going to take Partner 1 six years of continued UK residence (either way) to get a British passport.

MEETING QUALIFYING REQUIREMENTS

Here we address the qualifying requirements of each visa. We do so by addressing aspects that cause delays in submission.

ANC’s biggest hurdle (time consuming factor) relates to birth certificates. This is a common delay in these cases.
STL’s biggest hurdle (technical factor) relates to the financial requirement. This is why these cases are commonly refused.

Naturally, main applicants who have the choice between ANC or STL take the birth certificates (processing times) into consideration.

Move Up however helps present birth certificate solutions (to help source the documents through third parties).

What this means is that ANC’s hurdle is no longer much of a factor. If anything, it frees the main applicant from risks and gives the upper edge to ANC.

INITIAL COSTS

OK. Now that our contestants have warmed up, we can really begin this battle.

There are scenarios that play out from here:

Scenario 1: Partner 1 has a UK born grandparent and Partner 2 has a claim to British citizenship.

Scenario 2: Partner 1 does not have a UK born grandparent and Partner 2 has a claim to either Ancestry visa or can claim British citizenship.

Ancestry vsSettlement
SCENARIO 1: Partner 1 = Ancestry : Partner 2 = British.
INITIAL COST TO ENTER
Couple£2,653£2,845
Couple plus minor£5,184 £5,568
Couple plus 2 minors£7,715£8,291
Couple plus 3 minors£10,246£11,014
SCENARIO 2: Partner 2 = Ancestry or British.
INTIAL COST TO ENTER
Couple£5,062£2,845
Couple plus minor£7,593£5,568
Couple plus 2 minors£10,124£8,291
Couple plus 3 minors£12,655£11,014

CALCULATIONS OF INITIAL COSTS

To help address the expected costs in each of the scenarios, we have put our calculations below:

SCENARIO 1: Partner 1 = Ancestry : Partner 2 = British.

Partner 1 claims Ancestry visa and Partner 2 holds British citizenship claim. Then there would only be 1 visa applicant (Partner 1 claiming Ancestry working rights).

Calculation for ANC
Main Applicant (UK Grandparent) Partner 1Married Like Partner (Partner 2)
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£531.00
NHS£2,000.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£2,531.00£122.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa.

Summary of 1 visa applicant. Married like dependent on British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa).

Calculation for STL
Main (British Passport Holder) Partner 2Married Like Partner (Partner 1)
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00 £2,723.00

Summary for Couples.

ANC has a total fee of £2,653.00 (£2,531 +£122.00).
STL has a combined total of £2,845 (£122 + £2,723).

The conclusion is, therefore, ANC visa is initially cheaper for couples where Partner 2 holds a British passport and Partner 1 has Ancestry claim.

This scenario applies to couples that share a biological minor dependent (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant – Partner 1) and the other partner is seen as British (Partner 2). Together they bring their minor (therefore 1 family dependents).

Summary of 2 visa applicants. ANC main applicant (Partner 1), British married like partner (Partner 2) and 1 ANC family dependent.

Calculation for ANC
Main Applicant (Partner 1)British (Partner 2)Minor
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£2,531.00£122.00 £2,531.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa). The minor will also need the UK Settlement visa (seen as the family dependent of British passport holder).

Summary of 2 visa applicants. Married like dependent on British national and a minor dependent.

Calculation for STL
British Passport Holder (Partner 2)Partner (Partner 1)Minor
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00 £2,723.00£2,723.00

Summary for Couples with 1 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £5,184 (£122 + (2 x £2,531).
STL has a combined total of £5,568 (£122 + (2 x £2,723)).

The conclusion is, therefore, ANC visa is initially cheaper for couples with 1 minor dependent.

This scenario applies to couples that share two biological minor dependents (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant – Partner 1) and the other partner is seen as British (Partner 2). Together they bring their two minors (therefore 2 family dependents).

Summary of 3 visa applicants. ANC main applicant (Partner 1), British married like partner (Partner 2) and 2 ANC minor dependents.

Calculation for ANC
Main Applicant (Partner 1)British (Partner 2)Minor 1Minor 2
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£2,531.00£122.00 £2,531.00£2,531.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa). The minor will also need the UK Settlement visa (seen as the family dependent of British passport holder).

Summary of 2 visa applicants. Married like dependent on British national and a minor dependent.

Calculation for STL
British Passport Holder (Partner 2)Partner (Partner 1)Minor 1Minor 2
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00£1,200.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00 £2,723.00£2,723.00£2,723.00

Summary for Couples with 2 Minor Dependents.

ANC has a combined total of £7,715 (£122 + (3 x £2,531).
STL has a combined total of £8,291 (£122 + (3 x £2,723)).

The conclusion is, therefore, ANC visa is initially cheaper for couples with 2 minor dependents.

This scenario applies to couples that share two biological minor dependents (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant – Partner 1) and the other partner is seen as British (Partner 2). Together they bring their two minors (therefore 3 family dependents).

Summary of 3 visa applicants. ANC main applicant (Partner 1), British married like partner (Partner 2) and 3 ANC minor dependents.

Calculation for ANC
Main Applicant (Partner 1)British (Partner 2)Minor 1Minor 2Minor 3
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£2,531.00£122.00 £2,531.00£2,531.00£2,531.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa). The minors will also need the UK Settlement visa (seen as the family dependent of British passport holder).

Summary of 4 visa applicants. Married like dependent on British national and 4 minor dependents.

Calculation for STL
British Passport Holder (Partner 2)Partner (Partner 1)Minor 1Minor 2Minor 3
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00£1,200.00£1,200.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00 £2,723.00£2,723.00£2,723.00£2,723.00

Summary for Couples with 3 Minor Dependents.

ANC has a combined total of £10,246 (£122 + (4 x £2,531).
STL has a combined total of £11,014 (£122 + (4 x £2,723)).

The conclusion is, therefore, ANC visa is initially cheaper for couples with 3 minor dependents.


SCENARIO 2: Partner 2 = Ancestry or British claim

In this scenario, Partner 1 has no birth ties and Partner 2 has claim to either British passport or Ancestry visa.

In this Ancestry scenario, there would be 2 visa applicants. Partner 2 would be Ancestry main applicant and Partner 1 would be married like dependent on Ancestry visa.

Calculation for ANC
Main Applicant (UK Grandparent)Married Like Partner
British Passport
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£2,531.00£2,531.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner (Partner 2) has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner (Partner 1) will need a visa.

Seen as 1 STL visa applicant. Married like dependent on British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa).

Calculation for STL
Main (British Passport Holder)Married Like Partner
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00 £2,723.00

Summary for Couples.

ANC has a combined total of £5,062 (2 x £2,531).
STL has a combined total of £2,845 (£122 + £2,723).

The conclusion is, therefore, STL visa is initially cheaper for couples.

This scenario applies to couples that share a biological minor dependent (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their minor (therefore 2 family dependents).

Summary of 3 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 2 ANC family dependent.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor
British Passport
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£2,531.00£2,531.00£2,531.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa). The minor will also need the UK Settlement visa (seen as the family dependent of British passport holder).

Summary of 2 visa applicants. Married like dependent on British national and a minor dependent.

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00 £2,723.00£2,723.00

Summary for Couples with 1 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £7,593 (3 x £2,531).
STL has a combined total of £5,568 (£122 + (2 x £2,723)).

The conclusion is, therefore, STL visa is initially cheaper for couples with 1 minor dependent.

This scenario applies to couples that share two biological minor dependents (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration. The same cost though.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their two minors (therefore 3 family dependents).

Summary of 4 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 3 ANC family dependents.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor
British Passport
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£2,531.00£2,531.00£2,531.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa). Each minor will need the UK Settlement visa (as the family dependent of British passport holder).

Summary of 3 visa applicant. Married like dependent on British national (main applicant) and 2 minor dependents.

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00 £2,723.00£2,723.00

Summary for Couples with 2 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £10,124 (4 x £2,531).
STL has a combined total of £8,291 (£122 + (3 x £2,723)).

The conclusion is, therefore, STL visa is initially cheaper for couples with 2 minor dependents.

This scenario applies to couples that share three biological minor dependents (that will be all below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration. Same costs though.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their minors (therefore 4 family dependents).

Summary of 5 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 4 ANC family dependents.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor
British Passport
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£2,531.00£2,531.00£2,531.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa (seen as UK Settlement visas main applicant. Each minor will need to consider the UK Settlement visa as well (seen as minor dependents of British national).

Summary of 4 visa applicant. Married like dependent on British national (main applicant) and 3 minor dependents.

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£124.00 £2,723.00£2,723.00

Summary for Couples with 3 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £12,655 (5 x £2,531).
STL has a combined total of (£122 + (4 x £2,723)).

The conclusion is, therefore, STL visa is initially cheaper for couples with 3 minor dependents.


TOTAL COSTS

We work on the basis of understanding that all parties spend 6 continuous years in the UK (upon entry).

The above understanding does not make allowance for either case to have spent time outside of the UK of longer than 180 days per annum.

Another factor of consideration is that we work on the basis of understanding that in 6 years time, the minor will remain under the age of 16 years (old). Different costs are incurred for adult cases (British passport applications specifically).

Further to this, we operate with the understanding that the family in question fly over together and start UK residence together (at the same time). If they initiate their visas at different times, it will impact each individuals timing to earn Permanent Residence status.

For now, we are simply asking “which approach is cheaper in the long run?

Ancestry vsSettlement
SCENARIO 1: Partner 1 = Ancestry : Partner 2 = British.
TOTAL COST TO GET BRITISH PASSPORT
Couple£6,494£8,919
Couple plus minor£12,830 £14,973
Couple plus 2 minors£19,166£21,027
Couple plus 3 minors£25,502£27,081
SCENARIO 2: Partner 2 = Ancestry or British.
TOTAL COST TO GET BRITISH PASSPORT
Couple£12,744£8,919
Couple plus minor£19,080£14,973
Couple plus 2 minors£25,416£21,027
Couple plus 3 minors£31,752£27,081

CALCULATIONS OF TOTAL COSTS

To help address the expected costs in each of the scenarios, we have put our calculations below:

Scenario 1: Partner 1 = Ancestry : Partner 2 = British

This scenario applies to couples only. We are looking at the whole transaction from start to finish.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other is seen as a married like dependent (1 family dependent).

Summary of 2 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 1 ANC family dependent.

Calculation for ANC
Main Applicant (UK Grandparent)Married Like Partner
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£531.00
NHS£2,000.00
Extension
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£6,372.00£122.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa.

Summary of 1 visa applicant. Married like dependent on British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa).

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderMarried Like Partner
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00
Extension
Further Leave to Remain£1,033.00
NHS Contribution£1,200.00
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00£8,797.00

Summary for Couples.

ANC has a combined total of £6,494 (£6,372 + £122.00).
STL has a combined total of £8,919 (£122 + £8,797).

Based on the current visa fees, the conclusion (based on total expected transaction) is that ANC visa is cheaper for couples.

This scenario applies to couples that share a biological minor dependent (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their minor (therefore 2 family dependents).

Summary of 3 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 2 ANC family dependent.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00
Extension
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£6,372.00 £122.00£6,336.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa. So too will their biological minor.

Summary of 2 visa applicants. Married like dependent of British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa) and a minor dependent (seen as the minor dependent of British passport holder – also lodging UK Settlement visa dependency).

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
Extension
Further Leave to Remain£1,033.00£1,033.00
NHS Contribution£1,200.00£1,200.00
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,012.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00£8,797.00£6,054.00

Summary for Couples with 1 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £12,830.00 (£6,372.00 + £122.00 + £6,336.00).
STL has a combined total of £14,973.00 (£122 + £8,797.00 + £6,054.00).

Based on the current visa fees, the conclusion (based on total expected transaction) is that the ANC visa is cheaper for couples with 1 minor dependent.

This scenario applies to couples that share two biological minor dependents (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration. The same cost though.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their two minors (therefore 3 family dependents).

Summary of 4 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 3 ANC family dependents.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor 1Minor 2
Entry Clearance
British Passport £122.00
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
Extension
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00£2,389.00£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,330.00£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£6,372.00£122.00£6,372.00£6,336.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa. So too will their 2 biological minor.

Summary of 3 visa applicants. Married like dependent of British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa) and 2 minor dependents (seen as the minor dependent of British passport holder – also lodging UK Settlement visa dependency).

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
Extension
Further Leave to Remain£1,033.00£1,033.00
NHS Contribution£1,200.00£1,200.00
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,012.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00£8,797.00£6,054.00

Summary for Couples with 2 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £19,166.00 (£6,372.00 + £122.00 + (2 x £6,336.00)).
STL has a combined total of £21,027.00 (£122 + £8,797.00 + (2 x £6,054.00)).

Based on the current visa fees, the conclusion (based on total expected transaction) is that the ANC visa is cheaper for couples with 2 minor dependents.

This scenario applies to couples that share three biological minor dependents (that will be all below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration. Same costs though.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their minors (therefore 4 family dependents).

Summary of 5 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 4 ANC family dependents.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00
Extension
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£6,372.00£122.00£6,336.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa. So too will their 2 biological minor.

Summary of 3 visa applicants. Married like dependent of British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa) and 2 minor dependents (seen as the minor dependent of British passport holder – also lodging UK Settlement visa dependency).

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
Extension
Further Leave to Remain£1,033.00£1,033.00
NHS Contribution£1,200.00£1,200.00
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,012.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00£8,797.00£6,054.00

Summary for Couples with 3 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £25,502.00 (£6,372.00 + £122.00 + (3 x £6,336.00)).
STL has a combined total of £27,081.00 (£122 + £8,797.00 + (3 x £6,054.00)).

Based on the current visa fees, the conclusion (based on total expected transaction) is that the ANC visa is cheaper for couples with 3 minor dependents.

Scenario 2: Partner 2 = Ancestry or British

This scenario applies to couples only. We are looking at the whole transaction from start to finish.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other is seen as a married like dependent (1 family dependent).

Summary of 2 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 1 ANC family dependent.

Calculation for ANC
Main Applicant (UK Grandparent)Married Like Partner
Entry Clearance
British Passport
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00
Extension
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00£122.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£6,372.00£6,372.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa.

Summary of 1 visa applicant. Married like dependent on British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa).

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderMarried Like Partner
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00
Extension
Further Leave to Remain£1,033.00
NHS Contribution£1,200.00
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00£8,797.00

Summary for Couples.

ANC has a combined total of £12,744 (2 x £6,372).
STL has a combined total of £8,919 (£122 + £8,797).

Based on the current visa fees, the conclusion (based on total expected transaction) is that STL visa is cheaper for couples.

This scenario applies to couples that share a biological minor dependent (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their minor (therefore 2 family dependents).

Summary of 3 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 2 ANC family dependent.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
Extension
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00£2,389.00£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,330.00£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£6,372.00£6,372.00£6,336.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa. So too will their biological minor.

Summary of 2 visa applicants. Married like dependent of British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa) and a minor dependent (seen as the minor dependent of British passport holder – also lodging UK Settlement visa dependency).

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
Extension
Further Leave to Remain£1,033.00£1,033.00
NHS Contribution£1,200.00£1,200.00
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,012.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00£8,797.00£6,054.00

Summary for Couples with 1 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £19,080.00 ((2 x £6,372.00) + £6,336.00).
STL has a combined total of £14,973.00 (£122 + £8,797.00 + £6,054.00).

Based on the current visa fees, the conclusion (based on total expected transaction) is that the STL visa is cheaper for couples with 1 minor dependent.

This scenario applies to couples that share two biological minor dependents (that will be below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration. The same cost though.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their two minors (therefore 3 family dependents).

Summary of 4 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 3 ANC family dependents.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
Extension
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00£2,389.00£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,330.00£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£6,372.00£6,372.00£6,336.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa. So too will their 2 biological minor.

Summary of 3 visa applicants. Married like dependent of British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa) and 2 minor dependents (seen as the minor dependent of British passport holder – also lodging UK Settlement visa dependency).

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
Extension
Further Leave to Remain£1,033.00£1,033.00
NHS Contribution£1,200.00£1,200.00
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,012.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00£8,797.00£6,054.00

Summary for Couples with 2 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £25,416.00 ((2 x £6,372.00) + (2 x £6,336.00)).
STL has a combined total of £21,027.00 (£122 + £8,797.00 + (2 x £6,054.00)).

Based on the current visa fees, the conclusion (based on total expected transaction) is that the STL visa is cheaper for couples with 2 minor dependents.

This scenario applies to couples that share three biological minor dependents (that will be all below the age of 18 years old at the time of visa submission) looking to permanently relocate.

Please note that stepchildren (minors from previous relationships) have more additional factors of consideration. Same costs though.

ANC Consideration
In visa terms, one parent has a UK born grandparent (main applicant) and the other partner is seen as a married like dependent (partner). Together they bring their minors (therefore 4 family dependents).

Summary of 5 visa applicants. ANC main applicant and 4 ANC family dependents.

Calculation for ANC
Main ApplicantPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport
Visa Fee£531.00£531.00£531.00
NHS£2,000.00£2,000.00£2,000.00
Extension
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00£2,389.00£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,330.00£1,330.00
Request British passport.£122.00£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£6,372.00£6,372.00£6,336.00

STL Consideration
In visa terms, one partner has a British passport (and therefore cannot apply for UK visa) and the other partner will need a visa. So too will their 2 biological minor.

Summary of 3 visa applicants. Married like dependent of British national (seen as the main applicant of UK Settlement visa) and 2 minor dependents (seen as the minor dependent of British passport holder – also lodging UK Settlement visa dependency).

Calculation for STL
British Passport HolderPartnerMinor
Entry Clearance
British Passport£122.00
Visa Fee£1,523.00£1,523.00
NHS£1,200.00£1,200.00
Extension
Further Leave to Remain£1,033.00£1,033.00
NHS Contribution£1,200.00£1,200.00
Permanent Residence
Indefinite Leave to Remain£2,389.00
Naturalization
Request British citizenship.£1,330.00£1,012.00
Request British passport.£122.00£86.00
TOTAL PER APPLICANT£122.00£8,797.00£6,054.00

Summary for Couples with 3 Minor Dependent.

ANC has a combined total of £31,752.00 ((2 x £6,372.00) + (3 x £6,336.00)).
STL has a combined total of £27,081.00 (£122 + £8,797.00 + (3 x £6,054.00)).

Based on the current visa fees, the conclusion (based on total expected transaction) is that the STL visa is cheaper for couples with 3 minor dependents.


PAST VERSIONS

Before we draw our conclusion, it is important to note that we have applied a lot of thought and consideration in drafting this document. Our past comparisons serve to show how past immigration changes impact this comparison:

2016 Archive: Ancestry was the best option (in all circumstances).

2018 Archive: NHS fee increase (from GBP200 to GBP400 per year) made the Ancestry visa slightly more expensive and therefore lost some of it’s edge.

2019 Archive: Ancestry visa could no longer be claimed by South Africans that have a UK born parent. This reduces the number of applicants able to make this comparison.


CONCLUSION

This comparison confirms that the Ancestry is quicker and easier to apply for.

Those in a rush or looking for the quickest solution can consider the Ancestry visa the quicker process (subject to birth certificate accessibility).

Cost is understandably an important factor of consideration. Move Up encourages applicants who can choose to consider that the decision between these visas should not be based on cost alone.

A total comparison looks like this:

Ancestry vsSettlement
INITIAL ASSESSMENT
Visa Duration5 years (intially)2.5 years (initially)
Processing Times15 working days 60 working days
Refusal RiskLower Higher
BENEFITS
Free SchoolingAvailable at ILR status.Available at ILR status.
Get a British Passport (Partner 1):6 years.6 years.
Get a British Passport (Minor(s)):6 years.3 years.
DOCUMENT AVAILABILTY
Time HurdlesBirth Certificates.Financials.
SCENARIO 1: Partner 1 = Ancestry : Partner 2 = British.
INTIAL COST TO ENTER
Couple£2,653£2,845
Couple plus minor£5,184 £5,568
Couple plus 2 minors£7,715£8,291
Couple plus 3 minors£10,246£11,014
TOTAL COST TO GET BRITISH PASSPORT
Couple£6,494£8,919
Couple plus minor£12,830 £14,973
Couple plus 2 minors£19,166£21,027
Couple plus 3 minors£25,502£27,081
SCENARIO 2: Partner 2 = Ancestry or British.
INTIAL COST TO ENTER
Couple£5,062£2,845
Couple plus minor£7,593£5,568
Couple plus 2 minors£10,124£8,291
Couple plus 3 minors£12,655£11,014
TOTAL COST TO GET BRITISH PASSPORT
Couple£12,744£8,919
Couple plus minor£19,080£14,973
Couple plus 2 minors£25,416£21,027
Couple plus 3 minors£31,752£27,081

Scenario 1 (where Partner 1 has Ancestry claim and Partner 2 has a British passport) has different costs implications. Ancestry proves the most beneficial in these cases.

Scenario 2 though (where Partner 2 has a choice between Ancestry or British passport) has a different cost implication. In this scenario, British passport and Settlement visas is the most cost effective approach.

Hopefully you found that this insight helpful in your decision making.


THE NEXT STEP

To help further in these cases, Move Up offers solutions in both scenario’s.

For those considering the ANC as their families best next option:

Free eligibility assessment Free birth certificate assessment

For those considering the STL as their families best next option:

Free eligibility assessment Free financial requirement assessment