The UK Ancestry Visa allows citizens of countries like Pakistan to live and work in the United Kingdom if they have a grandparent who was born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man. This visa provides an excellent opportunity for those with British ancestry to move to the UK and work, start a business, or join family members. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the eligibility requirements and the step-by-step process to apply for a UK Ancestry Visa from Pakistan.

What is the UK Ancestry Visa?

The UK Ancestry Visa is designed for individuals whose grandparents were born in the UK or certain British territories. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to five years, and after that, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which can eventually lead to British citizenship.

The key benefit of this visa is that it allows you to work for any employer in the UK, start your own business, or even study while living in the country.

Who is Eligible for the UK Ancestry Visa from Pakistan?

To apply for a UK Ancestry Visa, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Age Requirement

You must be at least 17 years old at the time of your application.

2. Ancestry Link

You must prove that one of your grandparents was born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man. Your grandparent could have been born in any of the following locations:

• The United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
• The Channel Islands (Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, and Alderney)
• The Isle of Man

Your grandparent can be either the mother’s or father’s parent. It’s essential to provide documentary evidence of your family tree to establish this ancestry link.

3. Financial Requirements

You must be able to demonstrate that you can support yourself and your family without relying on public funds. Typically, you must have a minimum of £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before you apply.

If you are planning to bring family members with you, such as a spouse or children, you will also need to prove that you can financially support them during your stay in the UK.

4. Proof of Intent to Work in the UK

You must show that you plan to work in the UK and that you are capable of supporting yourself financially through employment or self-employment. You do not need a job offer to apply for this visa, but you must demonstrate your intentions.

5. Health and Character Requirements

Like most UK visa types, you must meet the health and character requirements. You will need to provide a clean criminal record and undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test if applicable.

How to Apply for a UK Ancestry Visa from Pakistan

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the UK Ancestry Visa from Pakistan:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before applying, make sure you have all the necessary documents to support your application:

• A valid passport or travel document.
• Proof of your UK ancestry (e.g., your grandparent’s birth certificate, your parent’s birth certificate, and your birth certificate to establish the lineage).
• Evidence that you meet the financial requirements (e.g., bank statements for the last 28 days showing £1,270 or more).
• Proof of your plans to work or study in the UK.
• Tuberculosis test results (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (if required).

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

The application for the UK Ancestry Visa is done online via the UK government’s official website. You will need to create an account and complete the visa application form, providing information about yourself, your family, and your ancestry.

During the application, you will be asked to upload scanned copies of your documents, including your proof of ancestry, financial documents, and any other supporting materials.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for the UK Ancestry Visa is £516. This fee must be paid when you submit your application. Additionally, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year for each year you are in the UK on this visa. The IHS allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).

Step 4: Book and Attend a Biometrics Appointment

Once you submit your application and pay the fees, you will need to attend a biometrics appointment at your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan. At the appointment, you will provide your fingerprints and a photograph as part of the visa application process.

Step 5: Submit Your Documents to the VAC

After your biometrics appointment, you may need to submit your original documents to the VAC for verification. This can include proof of ancestry, financial statements, and any other requested documents.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

Once your application is complete, it will be reviewed by the UK Home Office. Processing times can vary, but typically, the UK Ancestry Visa takes around 8 weeks to process. During this time, the Home Office may ask for additional information or documents.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa

If your application is successful, you will receive a visa vignette in your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK. Upon arrival, you will need to collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), which confirms your immigration status in the UK.

Benefits of the UK Ancestry Visa

The UK Ancestry Visa comes with several advantages, including:

• Ability to work: You can work in any job, start your own business, or be self-employed.
• Pathway to permanent residency: After five years in the UK, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which can lead to UK citizenship.
• Family members: You can bring your spouse or children (under 18) with you to the UK.
• Access to public services: You’ll be able to use the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and other public services.

Conclusion

The UK Ancestry Visa offers a fantastic opportunity for Pakistani citizens with UK ancestry to live, work, and build a life in the United Kingdom. By proving your ancestral connection, meeting the financial and health requirements, and following the application process, you can take the first step towards a new chapter in your life. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or join family members in the UK, the UK Ancestry Visa provides an exciting and flexible pathway to a brighter future.