Registration of Children as British Citizens

A child may be entitled to register as a British citizen if:

• They were born in the UK and a parent later became a British citizen or acquired permanent residence (settled status).
• They have lived in the UK for the first 10 years of their life, with no more than 90 days of absence in any year.
• They were born outside the UK to a British citizen by descent, and the family has been living in the UK for a continuous period of at least three years before applying.
• They were born outside the UK to a British citizen by descent and that parent lived in the UK for at least three continuous years prior to the birth of the child.

Yes. If a child does not meet the automatic criteria, they may still be eligible to apply on the basis of discretion. In these cases, the Home Office considers compelling or compassionate reasons, including:

• Whether the child is settled.
• The status of the parents.
• Whether the child’s future lies in the UK.
• Where over the age of 10, good character.
• Long-term residence in the UK.
• Strong educational and social ties.
• Absence of nationality elsewhere or risk of statelessness.
• The child’s best interests.

Applications must normally be made before the child turns 18. The Home Office will take into account:

• The child’s nationality at birth and current status.
• Consent to registration from both parents or those with parental responsibility.
• Supporting documentation, including identity documents and residence evidence.
• For children aged 10+, whether they meet the good character requirement.

We begin by assessing your child’s:

• Eligibility for registration.
• Immigration history and lawful residence.
• Eligibility through entitlement of minors born in the UK or abroad, or via discretionary grounds.
• Any exceptional reasons or special circumstances that may support the application.

We will help you gather and prepare all the required detailed documentary evidence, which may include:

• Full birth certificate of the child.
• Passports and immigration documents for the British citizen parents.
• Evidence of residence, such as school letters, bills or tenancy agreements.
• Letters from professionals (e.g., health visitors, teachers).
• Financial documents if applying for a citizenship application fee waiver.
• Referee declarations.

We also ensure you use the correct form, and guide you through form completion, submission, and compliance with all legal requirements.

Yes. Our team will:

• Draft and review all necessary forms.
• Compile and organise supporting documents.
• Advise on the registration fee.
• Submit your online application or paper form, as appropriate.
• Communicate with the Home Office on your behalf.

Absolutely. We provide regular updates on:

• Processing times.
• Biometric appointments.
• Any further information requested by the Home Office.