To qualify for a UK ancestral visa, you must be a citizen of a country that is part of the Commonwealth of Nations, which includes fifty-four countries. It doesn't matter if you were born in a commonwealth nation or if you immigrated; it only matters that you are a citizen.
One of your grandparents must have been a citizen of the United Kingdom, the Channel Island or the Isle of Man. You can either be a biological descendant or a descendant through adoption; adoption paperwork is required. Additionally, if your grandparent was born in the current Republic of Ireland before March 31, 1922, you may qualify.
You must be able to work while you are in the UK and intend to do so. Ideal visa candidates will be able to support themselves without relying on public funding. Your application may be aided if you have a job lined up. You do not need a work permit.
You will need your birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable) and the birth certificates of the parents and grandparents you intend to use on your application. You will need the marriage certificates of your parents and grandparents if they were married. A passport, passport photos and visa fees also will be required.
You need to be at least 17 years old to apply. The visa is good for five years, after which you can apply for permanent residence if you have spent most of the five years in the UK. You must apply for the ancestry visa from the country where you are a citizen. It is possible for your family to join you in the UK if you are able to support them and if they obtain the appropriate visas.
