UK Ancestral Visa Reconnect with Your Roots and Build a Life in the UK
Discover your UK heritage and turn it into a gateway to live, work, and thrive in Britain. The UK Ancestral Visa (often called the Ancestry Visa) is a flexible route for Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK—perfect if you're dreaming of tracing family stories while launching a career in London, Edinburgh, or beyond. No job offer needed, full work rights from day one, and a clear path to permanent settlement after five years.
But with the Immigration White Paper's proposed changes (like longer ILR waits under consultation), 2025 is prime time to apply under current rules. At Buzz Visas, we've helped dozens of applicants uncover their eligibility and navigate the process stress-free—from birth certificate hunts to Home Office approvals. Whether you're from Australia, Canada, or New Zealand, let's make your ancestral link your ticket home.
Who Qualifies for the UK Ancestral Visa in 2025?
Unlocking the UK Ancestral Visa starts with proving your family ties. This visa honors Commonwealth heritage, letting you live and work in the UK for up to five years if you meet these core requirements. It's not just paperwork—it's a celebration of your lineage.
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Nationality: You must be a Commonwealth citizen (e.g., Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, India), British Overseas Citizen, British Overseas Territories Citizen, British National (Overseas), or Zimbabwe citizen. (US citizens? Not eligible—explore Skilled Worker/Partner routes instead.)
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Ancestral Link: One grandparent (maternal or paternal) born in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland), Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or Ireland before March 31, 1922. Legal adoption counts—trace via birth certs.
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Age: 17 or older at application.
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Intent to Work: Show genuine plans to seek or take employment (no sponsor needed; self-employment OK).
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Maintenance Funds: Prove you (and dependants) can support yourselves without public funds—e.g., £5,000+ in savings (bank statements within 31 days of applying).
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Health & Character: TB test if from a listed country; no serious criminal record