Travel beyond borders comes with its own adrenaline trip. If exploring your roots is added to the mix, the excitement goes up manifold.

Widespread emigration from the UK to its colonies and other parts of the world during the British Empire’s peak period resulted in many people living outside the UK today who can trace their roots back to “ye olde world.” If you are an eligible Commonwealth citizen or a British overseas national who can claim UK ancestry, you can travel to the UK on a UK Ancestry visa.

Is the UK Safe for LGBTQ+ Travelers?

The UK is one of the top 10 LGBTQ+-friendly countries according to the Spartacus Gay Travel Index (GTI) 2025. The index measures living conditions for LGBTQ+ individuals in different countries on 18 parameters, ranging from anti-discrimination legislation, same-sex marriages and/or civil partnerships, to prosecution of gender minorities.

The UK prides itself being a diverse and tolerant society, with the government committed to advancing equality for LGBTQ+ people. Apart from a sizable number of LGBTQ+ citizens and residents, the UK is a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.

The country hosts many a LGBTQ+ event throughout the year along with major festivals in summer, including Birmingham Pride, Out & Wild Festival, Pink Picnic, Pride Cymru, Pride Edinburgh, Bristol Pride, Pride in London, Leeds Pride and so on.

So, if you are planning to enjoy the vibrant LGBTQ+ celebrations in the UK while exploring your familial ties with the island country, read on to find out whether you are eligible for a UK Ancestry visa, and how you can apply for it.

Can I Claim UK Ancestry?

Commonwealth citizens, British overseas citizens, British overseas territories citizens, British nationals (overseas), and Zimbabwe citizens can apply for UK Ancestry visas if they:

  • Have one grandparent born:
    • In the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man, or
    • Before 31 March 1922 in the territory which is now Ireland, or
    • On a British-registered ship or aircraft
  • Are over 17 years of age
  • Have sufficient financial means to support themselves and their dependants
  • Are eligible to work in the UK and intend to do so

You might also claim ancestry if:

  • You or your parent (who is the son/daughter of the concerned grandparent) were adopted
  • Your parents or grandparents were not married

However, please be advised that step-children cannot claim UK ancestry.

What I Can or Cannot Do in the UK on a UK Ancestry Visa?

Given that so many of us today prefer careers that do not tie us to a desk, working holidays are becoming more and more popular these days not only for solo travelers, but also for couples, even those with children. Travel is now becoming a way of life for many, rather than a luxury to be experienced once a year or every few years.

With a UK Ancestry visa, you can live, work or study in the country, and also bring your spouse or partner and children as your dependants, for as long as five years. The UK does not discriminate against same-sex spouses or partners, as same-sex marriages and civil partnerships are legal and recognized throughout the country.

You don’t need a prior job offer to apply for the visa. Plus, the Home Office will not bother whether your job in the UK is paid or voluntary as long as you can pay your bills and do not access public funds for yourself or your family members. You can also be self-employed.

After five years, you can apply to renew your visa or even for an indefinite leave to remain (ILR) to settle in the UK.

What Supporting Documents Do I Need for a UK Ancestry Visa?

Proving your British heritage is the key to be eligible to apply through the UK ancestry route. You will need at least the following supporting documents:

  • Current passport or any other similar travel ID
  • Your birth certificate
  • The birth certificates of the concerned parent and grandparent based on whom you are claiming your UK ancestry
  • Documents proving that you are planning to work in the UK
  • Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your and your dependents’ (if any) expenses (such as bank statements dated within 31 days from your visa application date)
  • Documents proving that the concerned parent or grandparent of yours has changed their name since birth, if applicable
  • Legal adoption papers (in case you or your parent is adopted)
  • Tuberculosis test results (where applicable)
  • Proof of relationship if your eligible family members are applying with you (e.g. marriage certificate, birth certificates, etc.)

How to Apply for a UK Ancestry Visa?

You will need to apply for a UK Ancestry visa from outside the UK. You will not be allowed to switch to this visa if you are already in the UK on a different visa. Similar to all UK visas, applying for a UK Ancestry visa is an online process.

Once you have completed the online form, please submit the same along with scanned copies of required documents and pay the required processing fees. Next, please book an appointment at a UK visa application center near your location in your home country.

On the date of your appointment, you will need to submit your passport and supporting documents at the center as well as provide your biometric details. You might also have to attend a visa interview.

Is a UK Ancestry Visa the Most Suitable Route for Me to Travel to the UK?

Coming to the UK via the ancestry route is a rare occurrence, if we consider the number of UK Ancestry visa permissions granted in a given year against the total number of foreigners immigrating to the UK in that year. However, it also means that it is an underutilized route.

The UK is increasingly tightening its immigration control at present. There had also been talks about abolishing the UK Ancestry visa in the past. However, the visa still exists as of today.

Whether it is the most suitable route for you to come to the UK among all the other available visa options, entirely depends on your personal circumstances. Consult with an immigration lawyer for a detailed, case-specific legal and immigration guidance.

Featured image by Assembly Hotel