Individuals can apply under the UK ancestry visa category if they can prove that they are:

  • A Commonwealth citizen;
  • Seventeen years of age or over;
  • The individual plans to work or is able to work in the UK;
  • The individual can prove that without the help of public funds, they can effectively support and accommodate themselves and their dependents.

The individual must also be able to prove that at least one of their grandparents was born:

  • On a British-registered aircraft or ship;
  • In the United Kingdom as well as the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands;
  • Prior to the 31st of March 1922 in what is now known as the Republic of Ireland.

If the individual can prove their relationship to the relevant grandparent is in the legitimate line or not, he or she can claim ancestry.

An individual can also apply for the UK Ancestry Visa if they or their parents (through whom they are claiming ancestry) are adopted and the individual must also include in their application form, the evidence of legal adoption. Although, an applicant cannot claim UK ancestry through their step-parents.