If you’re living outside the UK and have a British parent, you may be wondering: Can I get British citizenship by descent in 2025? The answer is: yes, you might already be a British citizen—or eligible to register.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about British citizenship by descent, how it works in 2025, and how to check if you’re eligible.
What Is British Citizenship by Descent?
British citizenship by descent means you inherited citizenship through your parents, rather than being born or naturalized in the UK. It usually applies when you’re:
- Born outside the UK
- Have at least one British parent at the time of your birth
British Citizenship by Descent in 2025: Who Qualifies?
You may already be a British citizen by descent if:
- You were born outside the UK
- Your mother or father was a British citizen otherwise than by descent (i.e., born, registered, or naturalized in the UK)
- Your birth was after 1 January 1983
Important: If your parent was British by descent (they also got it from their parents), you may not have inherited it automatically.
Inheriting British Citizenship: Descent vs. Non-Descent
There are two types of British citizens:
- By descent: Usually born outside the UK to British parents
- Otherwise than by descent: Born in the UK or became British through naturalization or registration
Only British citizens otherwise than by descent can pass on citizenship automatically to their children born abroad.
How to Prove British Citizenship by Descent
To prove you’re a British citizen by descent in 2025, you’ll need to apply for a British passport, not citizenship. When you apply, you’ll provide:
- Your birth certificate
- Your British parent’s birth certificate or passport
- Evidence they were a British citizen at your birth (passport, certificate, etc.)
No UK residency is required if you’re already a citizen.
Not Automatically a British Citizen? You May Still Be Eligible to Register
If you’re not automatically a British citizen by descent, you may still qualify for registration under certain conditions:
- Your British parent is your mother, and you were born before 1 January 1983
- Your father was British, but your parents weren’t married (before July 2006)
- You were born to a British citizen by descent, but they lived in the UK for a certain period
Registration is discretionary and based on your specific case.
Common Questions About British Citizenship by Descent
Can I pass on British citizenship to my kids?
Only if you become a British citizen otherwise than by descent (usually by naturalizing in the UK). Otherwise, citizenship by descent can’t be passed on.
Do I need to live in the UK to claim citizenship by descent?
No — if you’re already a citizen, you don’t need to live in the UK. If you’re registering, residency requirements vary.
How long does it take?
Registering as a British citizen typically takes 2 to 6 months. Passport applications may be faster.
Final Thoughts: British Citizenship by Descent in 2025
In 2025, British citizenship by descent remains a powerful pathway for people with British parents born abroad. If your parent was born in the UK or naturalized, you may already be a citizen. If not, you may still be eligible to register.