1. Eligibility for a British Passport for a Child Born Abroad
A child born abroad may be eligible for a British passport if they inherit British citizenship from one of their parents. Eligibility depends on the parents’ nationality and status at the time of the child’s birth.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- British Parent “Otherwise than by Descent”:
The child is automatically a British citizen if at least one parent was a British citizen by birth, adoption, naturalisation, or registration in the UK. - Parent British “By Descent”:
If the British parent was also born abroad and is British by descent, the child does not automatically become a British citizen. However, the child may be eligible to register as a British citizen (using Form MN1) before applying for a passport. - Marital Status:
If the British father was not married to the mother at the time of birth, additional proof (such as a DNA test or legal paternity document) may be required.
Important: If your child does not automatically qualify for British citizenship, registration as a British citizen is a necessary first step before applying for a passport.
2. Documents Required for a Child’s British Passport Application
When applying for a British passport for a child born abroad, you must submit original documents (not photocopies).
Required Documents
- Child’s Full Birth Certificate – Must show the child’s full name, date and place of birth, and the names of both parents.
- British Parent’s Passport – Proof that one parent is a British citizen.
- Parent’s Birth Certificate or Naturalisation Certificate – Especially if the British parent was born abroad or naturalised.
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable) – Required if only the father is British and the parents were married at the time of birth.
- Proof of Residence or Legal Status Abroad – May be needed to confirm the family’s lawful residence in the country of birth.
- Parental Consent Form – Both parents must typically provide written consent if the child is under 16.
- Passport Photos – One recent colour photo of the child that meets UK passport photo standards, signed on the back by a referee if required.
Tip: Check the local British embassy or consulate website for any additional country-specific requirements.
3. How to Apply for a British Passport for a Child Born Abroad
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Visit the official UK Government website at www.gov.uk/overseas-passports.
- Select “Apply for a child passport” and confirm that the child was born outside the UK.
- Complete the online form and print it if required by your local embassy.
Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents
Collect all required originals and translations (if applicable). Certified translations must be provided for non-English documents.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Submit your documents either:
- By post to the address specified in your online application confirmation, or
- In person at your nearest British embassy, consulate, or visa application centre (some locations require an appointment).
Step 4: Pay the Passport Fee
- The child passport fee varies depending on location but is usually between £86 and £100.
- Payment methods depend on the application country — typically credit card or bank transfer.
Step 5: Processing and Delivery
Processing time is generally 6–10 weeks, though it may take longer during peak periods.
Once approved, the passport will be sent by courier or collected at the local consulate, depending on local arrangements.
4. Registering the Child as a British Citizen (If Required)
If your child is not automatically a British citizen, you must first register them as a British citizen before applying for a passport.
Registration Process (Form MN1):
- Complete Form MN1 on the UK Home Office website.
- Submit supporting documents: proof of the parent’s British citizenship, the child’s birth certificate, and evidence of family ties.
- Pay the registration fee: £1,214 (as of 2024).
- Wait for approval: The process usually takes 3–6 months, after which you’ll receive a registration certificate.
Once the registration is complete, you can proceed to apply for the child’s British passport.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can my child have dual citizenship?
Yes. The UK allows dual citizenship, so your child can hold both British and their country of birth’s nationality (subject to local laws).
Q2: What if only one parent is British?
As long as the British parent is a citizen otherwise than by descent, the child is usually eligible for British citizenship and a passport.
Q3: Can I apply for a British passport for my child online?
Yes. You can begin the process online, but you must mail or present original documents in person.
Q4: How long does it take to get a child’s British passport abroad?
Typically 6–10 weeks, though times may vary depending on location and documentation.
Q5: How long is a child’s passport valid?
A British child passport is valid for 5 years. Adult passports (from age 16) are valid for 10 years.
Q6: Can adopted children born abroad apply for a British passport?
Yes, if at least one adoptive parent is a British citizen “otherwise than by descent” and the adoption is legally recognised under UK law.
6. Conclusion
Applying for a British passport for a child born abroad depends on whether the child automatically qualifies for British citizenship through a parent. If at least one parent is British otherwise than by descent, the process is straightforward. If not, you must register the child as a British citizen first using Form MN1.
By preparing all required documents and submitting a complete application, parents can ensure a smooth and successful process — allowing their child to enjoy the full rights and privileges of British nationality.
For fixed-fee legal help with UK citizenship or passport applications,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK immigration partner.