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Office 14, , 2A Heigham Rd, London E6 2JG

Highpoint Offices, First Floor

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British citizenship by Descent

Claim Your Right to British Nationality Through Your Family Lineage

British Citizenship by Descent

Comprehensive Legal Support from London’s Leading Solicitors

If you were born outside the UK to a British parent, you may already be a British citizen — or you may have a valid claim to register as one. This route, known as British Citizenship by Descent, is complex and depends heavily on the laws in force at the time of your birth, your parents’ status, and whether your mother or father held British citizenship.

At Right Law Solicitors, our immigration specialists in London have extensive experience helping individuals from around the world obtain British citizenship through their heritage. We assess eligibility, gather historical evidence, and provide expert legal representation to ensure a smooth and successful process.

What Is British Citizenship by Descent?

Citizenship by descent is the legal right to British citizenship if one or more of your parents was British at the time of your birth, even if you were born abroad. In many cases, you are automatically British and can apply directly for a passport. In other cases, you may need to register as a British citizen.

This route is available under the British Nationality Act 1981 and subsequent amendments — and it often applies to second-generation children, Commonwealth nationals, and those affected by historical gender discrimination.

Who Qualifies for British Citizenship by Descent?

  • You were born outside the UK
  • One of your parents was a British citizen at the time of your birth
  • That British parent acquired citizenship other than by descent (e.g. by birth in the UK, naturalisation, or registration)

You may also qualify if:

  • You are the child of a British mother born before 1983
  • You were born to a British father before 2006 and your parents were unmarried
  • You were born abroad to a British citizen by descent and meet additional requirements

Automatic Citizenship vs. Registration

Scenario Likely Route
British parent not born in the UK May require registration
British parent born or naturalised in the UK Automatic citizenship (passport application)
British mother born in UK before 1983 May now claim under Section 4C
Unmarried parents before 2006 Eligible via Section 4F
Parent acquired citizenship by descent Registration may be required

We help clarify your category and guide you to the correct route.

How We Help at Right Law Solicitors

Full Legal Review

We examine your parents’ citizenship history and nationality laws in force at the time.

Application Support

We guide you on passport or registration routes and complete the process.

Evidence Gathering

We help collect birth, naturalisation, marriage and historical records.

Legal Representation

We prepare cover letters and legal arguments for complex cases.

Our Pricing

We offer fixed-fee services for citizenship by descent and related applications.

Service Fixed Fee (Excl. VAT)
Citizenship by Descent – Passport Route £850
Registration via Section 4C / 4F £1,200
Complex Ancestral / Historical Route From £1,400
Advice & Eligibility Check Only £350

Initial Consultation: £100 (deductible if you proceed)
Home Office fees may apply separately

Why Choose Right Law Solicitors?

  • Specialists in Complex Nationality Law – Decades of experience in descent and registration cases
  • Clear Ancestral Reviews – We research and confirm eligibility with precision
  • Fixed-Fee Assurance – Transparent pricing without surprises
  • Efficient Submissions – Applications handled quickly and carefully
  • Global Support – We assist clients from all over the world

Begin Your Journey to British Citizenship

You may already be British by law — let us help you prove it.

  • Passport route: 4–8 weeks
  • Registration route: 2–6 months
  • Ceremony & passport application after approval
BOOK APPOINTMENT


Call us 020 3372 5360
info@rightlawsolicitors.co.uk

Key Stages and Timeline

  1. Initial Consultation & Ancestry Review → 2–3 working days
  2. Document Request & Eligibility Confirmation → 3–5 working days
  3. Application Preparation & Submission → Passport or registration process
  4. Biometrics & Document Upload → UKVCAS or overseas VAC
  5. Decision → Passport: 4–8 weeks | Registration: 2–6 months
  6. Certificate & Passport Application → Final step to full nationality

Let’s Help You Claim Your Citizenship

Our solicitors will confirm your rights, prepare your case, and help you secure recognition of your British nationality.

  • Accurate eligibility checks and legal advice
  • Full document and evidence preparation
  • Support through application and beyond

Our team is ready to support you throughout the process

One of our specialist will contact you by the end of the next business day.

Please contact us:

+44 020 3372 5360

info@rightlawsolicitors.co.uk