Does the UK Offer Birthright Citizenship?
No, the United Kingdom does not offer automatic birthright citizenship (also known as jus soli or “right of the soil”). Unlike the United States or Canada, being born in the UK does not automatically make a child a British citizen.
Instead, British citizenship by birth depends on the parents’ citizenship or immigration status at the time of the child’s birth. The UK uses a conditional citizenship model, meaning that a child’s nationality is linked to the legal status of their parents.
Who Qualifies for British Citizenship by Birth?
A child born in the UK automatically becomes a British citizen at birth if at least one parent meets any of the following criteria:
- British citizen parent: The child automatically qualifies for British citizenship, regardless of the other parent’s status.
- Settled parent: If a parent holds Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settled status, or permanent residence, the child is automatically a British citizen.
If neither parent is a British citizen or settled in the UK at the time of birth, the child will not automatically acquire British citizenship — though there are routes to apply later.
British Citizenship for Children Born to Immigrant Parents
Children born in the UK to immigrant parents may not receive British citizenship at birth. However, they may become eligible later through registration.
1. If Parents Later Become Settled or Naturalised
If parents gain settled status, ILR, or British citizenship after the child’s birth, the child can be registered as a British citizen.
2. The 10-Year Residency Rule
Children born in the UK who live continuously in the country for the first 10 years of their life can apply for British citizenship by registration, even if their parents were not settled when they were born.
This process ensures that children who have grown up in the UK can integrate fully as British citizens.
Citizenship Pathways for Children Born in the UK After 10 Years
Under the 10-year rule, a child can apply for British citizenship if:
- They have lived in the UK for their first 10 years continuously.
- They have not been outside the UK for more than 90 days in any given year.
This application is made through Form T and is one of the most common routes for children born to non-settled parents.
Once granted, the child receives a British citizenship certificate, enabling them to apply for a UK passport.
Registration as a British Citizen for Children Born Outside the UK
Children born outside the UK may also qualify for British citizenship through registration, depending on their parents’ status:
- British citizens “by descent”: If a parent was born or naturalised in the UK, their children born abroad may register as British citizens.
- British citizens “not by descent”: Parents who are British citizens “not by descent” (e.g., born or naturalised in the UK) can pass on citizenship automatically to children born abroad.
Registration applications for children born abroad must include proof of parentage, citizenship certificates, and birth documentation.
Applying for British Citizenship for Children
If a child does not automatically qualify for British citizenship at birth, parents can apply for registration on their behalf.
Step 1: Complete Form MN1
This form is used for:
- Children born in the UK to non-British parents who later become settled, or
- Children who have lived in the UK for 10 continuous years.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
You’ll need:
- The child’s full birth certificate
- Proof of parents’ citizenship or immigration status
- Evidence of UK residence (for the 10-year rule)
- Proof of good character (if aged 10 or older)
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
The application fee for child registration is £1,012.
Step 4: Attend Biometric Appointment
Children must provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
Step 5: Await Decision
Applications typically take 6–9 months. Once approved, the child receives a citizenship certificate, after which a British passport can be obtained.
Costs and Processing Times for British Citizenship Applications for Children
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Form | Form MN1 (for registration) |
| Fee | £1,012 per child |
| Processing Time | 6–9 months |
| Biometric Fee | Additional £19.20 (approx.) |
| Other Costs | Certified translations, courier, or legal assistance (optional) |
Applicants should ensure all documentation is complete to avoid unnecessary delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does the UK automatically grant citizenship to children born in the UK?
No. A child only automatically becomes a British citizen if one parent is a British citizen or has settled status at the time of birth.
Q2: Can a child born in the UK apply for citizenship if the parents become settled later?
Yes. Once a parent becomes settled or naturalised, the child can apply for citizenship by registration using Form MN1.
Q3: How long does a child have to live in the UK to qualify for citizenship?
Children who live in the UK for the first 10 years of their life can apply under the 10-year rule, provided absences do not exceed 90 days per year.
Q4: Is there a fee for applying for British citizenship for children?
Yes. The fee is £1,012 for each child application.
Q5: Can a child born outside the UK acquire British citizenship?
Yes. If at least one parent is a British citizen “otherwise than by descent”, the child may automatically or later qualify for citizenship through registration.
Q6: What happens if a child’s citizenship application is denied?
You may request a review or submit a new application with additional evidence. Legal assistance is often helpful for complex or rejected cases.
Conclusion
British citizenship by birth is not automatic — it depends on a parent’s citizenship or immigration status at the time of birth. However, the UK provides several routes for children to become citizens later, especially through the 10-year residency rule or registration after parents settle.
Understanding these pathways helps families make informed decisions and secure their children’s rights in the UK.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.