New requirements for the registration of children as of 13 January 2010
Jan 15, 2010
On 13 January 2010, new requirements for the registration of children came into force. These can be divided broadly into four categories:
1. Children born overseas to parents in the armed forces
A child born outside the UK after 13 January can register as a British citizen if: they were born to a Foreign and Commonwealth member of the UK armed forces and that parent was serving outside the UK at the time of birth. Both parents will need to consent to the registration.
2. Children born outside the UK to British citizens by descent
Children of British citizens by descent can be registered under section 3(2) of the British Nationality Act 1981 if an application is made at any time before their 18th birthday.
3. British Nationals Overseas with no other citizenship or nationality
British Nationals Overseas (BNO) can be registered under section 4B of the British Nationality Act 1981 if they do not hold any other citizenship or nationality. However, the caveat to bear in mind is that a BNO will not qualify under this section if he or she has done anything after 19 March 2009 that resulted in the loss of another nationality.
4. Children of British mothers
A person who has a British mother will have a right to register as a British citizen under section 4C of the British Nationality Act 1981, if they would have become a British citizen at birth had women been able to pass on citizenship in the same way as men (under the previous provision this right applied only to those born after 7 February 1961).
If you have an enquiry relating to your immigration status or you ability to work in the UK, we can assist you in your application. Please contact us or book an appointment.
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