Registration Of A Child As A British Citizen

With a history of collaboration with the Home Office, we comprehend the meticulous assessment process for each application. The Home Office scrutinizes applications closely, and any failure to meet eligibility criteria or fulfill documentation requirements may lead to refusal.

We are committed to diligently working to ensure the success of your applications.

Registration of a Child as a British Citizen

What is Registration of a Child as a British Citizen?

Registration is the exclusive avenue through which a child under 18 can attain British citizenship if not automatically conferred by birth. This process is also available for adults in specific circumstances.

Unlike naturalization applications, registering as a British citizen does not necessitate demonstrating proficiency in the English Language and Life in the UK. However, applicants aged 10 or older are subject to the good character requirement.

Is my child eligible?

To qualify for registration as a British citizen, a child must:

1. Be born in the UK on or after January 1, 1983.
2. Not be automatically a British citizen by birth.
3. Have one or both parents become British citizens or settled in the UK before the child’s 18th birthday.
4. Submit the registration application before the child’s 18th birthday.

OR

1. Be born in the UK on or after January 1, 1983.
2. Not be automatically a British citizen by birth.
3. Have one or both parents become a member of the armed forces before the child’s 18th birthday.
4. Submit the registration application before the child’s 18th birthday.

OR

1. Be born in the UK on or after January 1, 1983.
2. Not be automatically a British citizen by birth.
3. Be absent from the UK for no more than 90 days in each of the first ten years of life.
4. Apply for registration after the 10th birthday (applicable to applicants of any age).

OR

1. Be born outside the UK on or after January 1, 1983.
2. Have a parent who was a British citizen by descent at the time of birth.
3. The parent must have been in the UK for a consecutive period of at least three years before the child’s birth, with no more than 270 days of absence.
4. Submit the registration application before the child’s 18th birthday.

OR

1. Be born outside the UK on or after January 1, 1983.
2. Have a parent who was a British citizen by descent.
3. The child and both parents must have been in the UK three years before the application, with no more than 270 days of absence.
4. Both parents must consent to the registration.
5. Submit the registration application before the child’s 18th birthday.

Discretionary Applications

If none of the mentioned requirements are met, a child can apply to register as a British citizen on a discretionary basis. Our XT 24 team possesses vast experience in advising clients on discretionary applications if needed.

For more information about us and our British Citizenship and Naturalisation services, please reach out to an XT 24 team member who can answer any questions and guide you through the process.