Registration as a British Citizen (Child)
What Is Registration as a British Citizen for Children?
Registration as a British citizen is a legal process that allows children under the age of 18 to acquire British nationality when they do not automatically become British at birth.
This process is essential for children with strong ties to the UK who meet specific eligibility criteria under the British Nationality Act 1981.
Registration provides children with all the rights and privileges of British citizenship, including the ability to apply for a British passport, freedom from immigration control, and the right to live, work, and study in the UK with no restrictions.
What Are the Main Eligibility Routes for Registration as a British Citizen?
Children Born in the UK to Parents Who Later Became Settled
If a child was born in the UK and one of their parents later obtains Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Settled Status, or British citizenship, they can apply for registration.
Children Born in the UK to Parents in the Armed Forces
If a child was born in the UK on or after 13 January 2010, and one parent was a member of the UK Armed Forces, they are eligible for registration.
Children Born in the UK to Parents in the Armed Forces
If a child was born in the UK on or after 13 January 2010, and one parent was a member of the UK Armed Forces, they are eligible for registration.
Children Born in the UK with Residence from Birth to Age 10
If a child was born in the UK and has lived continuously in the UK for the first 10 years of their life, they may be eligible for registration, provided they have not been absent from the UK for more than 90 days in any of those 10 years.
Children Born Abroad to British Parents by Descent
Section 3(2): The British citizen parent must have lived in the UK for at least 3 years before the child’s birth with no more than 270 days of absences. Additionally, the child’s grandparent must have been a British citizen otherwise than by descent.
Section 3(5): The child and both parents must have lived in the UK for 3 continuous years before applying, and they must not have been absent for more than 270 days during that period.
Children Born Abroad to a Parent Serving in the UK Armed Forces
If a child was born on or after 13 January 2010, whilst their parent was serving overseas as a member of the UK Armed Forces, they may qualify.
Children Adopted by British Citizens
If a child was adopted under UK law by British parents, they will automatically become British citizens.
Can You Register as a British Citizen If You Do Not Meet the Standard Criteria?
Registration on a Discretionary Basis
In cases where a child does not meet the standard criteria, registration may still be possible at the discretion of the Home Secretary under Section 3(1).
Factors that may be considered include:
Strong Ties to the UK:
If a child has lived in the UK for an extended period and is integrated into UK society.
Parents' Immigration Status:
If a child’s parents are on a pathway to settlement, but the child does not yet meet eligibility requirements.
Exceptional Circumstances:
If humanitarian, compassionate, or other strong reasons justify registration.
Children of British Citizens in Certain Services:
If the child’s parent or grandparent served in a designated service or a European Community institution.
Best Interests of the Child:
The application will be assessed based on whether it aligns with the best interests of the child, following international obligations such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
What Are the Fees and Costs for Registration as a British Citizen?
Application Fees and Financial Requirements
- The standard registration fee is £1,214 (subject to change)
- Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship
What Are the Fees and Costs for Registration as a British Citizen?
Essential Documentation for Registration Applications
- Child’s birth certificate
- Parents’ passports and immigration documents
- Evidence of UK residence (for both child and parents where applicable)
- Consent of both parents (unless one has sole responsibility)
- Biometric information (for children aged 6 and over)
What Is the Parental Consent Requirement?
Obtaining Consent for a Child's Registration Application
Applications generally require the consent of both parents, unless there are exceptional circumstances such as:
- One parent has sole legal responsibility
- One parent cannot be contacted
- A court has ruled that excluding one parent from the decision is in the child’s best interest
Is There a Good Character Requirement for Children?
Character Assessment for Child Applicants
Children aged 10 or over must meet the good character requirement, which includes having no serious criminal convictions or records of dishonesty.
What Is the Processing Time for Child Registration Applications?
How Long Registration Applications Take
Citizenship registration applications typically take up to 6 months, though complex cases may take longer.
Is a Citizenship Ceremony Required for Children?
Ceremony Requirements for Child Registrations
Children who turn 18 before their application is processed must attend a citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance. Children under 18 when the application is decided do not need to attend a ceremony.
What Are the Referee Requirements for Child Applications?
Who Can Act as a Referee for a Child's Application
- One referee must be a British citizen and either a professional person or over 25
- The other must be a professional person of any nationality
- For children, at least one referee must be a professional who has dealt with the child in a professional capacity, such as a teacher, doctor, or social worker
What Is the Biometric Enrolment Process for Children?
Biometric Requirements by Age Group
Children applying for registration must provide biometric details:
- Those under 5 years old are only required to submit a digital photograph
- Children aged 6-17 need to provide both fingerprints and a digital photo
What Are the Travel Considerations After Registration?
Travelling After Becoming a British Citizen
Once a child becomes a British citizen, they can no longer use their previous immigration status or BRP to re-enter the UK. They must apply for a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode if they need to travel.
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