22 May How can a child register as British citizen?
A child might not be automatically be British just on account of his/her birth in the UK. It mostly depends on his/her parents’ immigration status at the time of birth.
Children born in the UK
If a child is not automatically British, he/she might be eligible to apply to ‘register’ if born in the UK and one of the following applies:
- The child is under 18 and has been granted settled status in line with his/her parents;
- The child has lived in the UK from birth to age 10 with limited absences.
Please note that under the British Nationality Act 1981, if the child was born in the UK after 1 January 1983, and one of his/her parents was a British citizen or ‘settled’ in the UK prior to the birth, the child will automatically be British, and entitled to apply for a UK passport, or ask for a letter confirming his/her citizenship.
How to apply?
In order to register, the parents will need to complete form MN1 online or use the following link:
In addition, the migrant will be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide his/her biometric information (fingerprints and a photo).
Please note that applicants can upload the copies of their supporting documents into the online service, or the documents can be scanned at the UKVCAS appointment centre.
How much does it cost?
The application fees for a child to register as a British citizen are £1,012, and £19.20 for the biometric information collection.
Please note that the child will need to pay additional £80 for the citizenship ceremony if he/she turns 18 during the application process. Alternatively, the child does not need to attend to attend a ceremony.
Contact Our Immigration Team
For expert advice regarding any aspect of British citizenship application, please contact our immigration team on 0203 384 3075 or contact us here.
