Eligibility and Requirements
Who can apply for Registration?
There are several routes that a child can be registered British, and this depends on several factors. Here are some of the most common routes:
Section 1(3) – Allows a child born in the UK to register as a British Citizen once a parent living in the UK is granted ILR or Settled Status.
Section 1(4) – Allows a child born in the UK to register as a British Citizen after spending the first 10 years of their life in the UK.
Section 3(2) – Allows a child born outside of the UK to a parent who is British by descent, if the parent has lived in the UK for 3 years before birth of the child.
Section 3(5) – Allows a child born outside of the UK to a parent who is British by descent, and did not live in the UK for 3 years before birth of the child, but have been living in the UK with the child for over 3 years.
There are also a number of other avenues based upon historic rights which allows a registration for a child who would have previously been excluded under older nationality laws.
For example, Section 4(C) may allow a person born outside the UK before 1 January 1983, and would have been a British Citizen if women had been able to pass citizenship in the same way as men at birth.
Need help? Get in touch to discuss possible nationality claims.
Essential Requirements for a UK Registration
For a successful Registration application to be made, the applicant will need to meet a set of eligibility requirements. You’ll need to provide evidence to the Home Office, which typically includes:
Child birth certificate
Parents’ passports and evidence of immigration status
Proof of residence
Parental consent
Child’s passport photos
Completed application form
How much does a Registration cost?
The fee for registration is £1,214. If the person applying for Registration is over the age of 18, at the time of approval, they would need to pay an additional £80 fee to attend a citizenship ceremony.
In some cases, fee waivers may be available to families facing financial hardship.
Step 1
Eligibility check and tailored advice
Step 2
Document preparation
Step 3
Application submission
Step 4
Communication with the Home Office
Step 5
Outcome and next steps
How the Application Process Works
How UK Immigration Pathways Can Help You
At UK Immigration Pathways, we provide expert guidance and end-to-end support for registering your child as a British Citizen, by assessing your eligibility, identify the correct registration route, and ensure all required documents and evidence meet Home Office standards. From completing the online application to preparing parental consent forms and submitting supporting documents, we handle each step with precision, giving you confidence that your child’s registration is completed smoothly, accurately, and without unnecessary delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is registration the same as naturalisation?
No. Registration applies mainly to children, while naturalisation is the route for adults who wish to become British citizens.
How long does the registration process take?
It typically takes around 3–6 months, though this can vary depending on Home Office workload and whether additional information is requested.
Can a child born outside the UK register as British?
Yes. In many cases, if at least one parent is a British citizen or has settled in the UK, your child may be eligible to register under Section 3(1), 3(2) or 3(5) of the British Nationality Act 1981.
Do both parents need to give consent?
Usually, yes. The Home Office will expect consent from both parents unless one parent has sole responsibility or there are exceptional circumstances.
What happens after my child is registered?
Once your child receives their Certificate of Registration, they are a British citizen for life. You can then apply for their first British passport.
Striving to be better for all...
My vision for UK Immigration Pathways has always been to build a practice grounded in integrity, professionalism, and genuine client care.
Oliver Parker
Director, UK Immigration Pathways
Overview of the Visa Service
Registration is the legal process to grant British Citizenship to a child who is not automatically British at birth, but who meets certain conditions. UK Immigration Pathways can discuss in detail your circumstance and advise on the best route available.
Why should I register my child as a British Citizen?
Registration makes your child a British Citizen by law, meaning they will have the rights as any other British Citizen, including the access to a British passport. If the family was to relocate out of the UK the child would be able to resettle with ease in the future due to their British Citizenship.
