At First Law Solicitors, we help British citizens and settled persons secure British citizenship for their children born abroad. Our solicitors combine deep knowledge of nationality law with careful documentation and a compassionate understanding of complex family situations.
We ensure that every registration is legally accurate, evidentially complete, and aligned with the latest Home Office policy under the British Nationality Act 1981 and the Nationality and Borders Act 2022.
A child born outside the United Kingdom is automatically a British citizen by descent if, at the time of their birth, one parent was already a British citizen otherwise than by descent (for example, by birth, adoption, or registration in the United Kingdom).
Automatic citizenship must often be proven before the child can apply for a British passport. We assist parents in preparing the necessary evidence and handling cases where documentation is incomplete or inconsistent.
If a child is not automatically British, they may still be eligible to register as a British citizen under section 3(2) or section 3(5) of the British Nationality Act 1981.
A child may be registered under section 3(2) if:
A child may be registered under section 3(5) if:
Our solicitors determine which route applies to your circumstances and prepare a detailed legal submission to ensure the Home Office understands the child’s genuine and continuing connection to the United Kingdom.
Applications for registration are submitted through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) digital platform using the MN1 form. Our solicitors handle the entire process from start to finish, including:
Once approved, the child receives a digital certificate of registration confirming British citizenship.
The good character requirement applies to children aged ten or older at the time the Home Office makes its decision. For younger applicants, the focus remains on family stability and welfare.
Our team conducts a preliminary good character assessment to ensure that any previous immigration or disciplinary issues are addressed before submission.
In some cases, registration as a British citizen may affect the child’s other nationality. Certain countries do not allow dual nationality, while others require registration with a local consulate.
Our solicitors provide comprehensive advice on the dual nationality implications, ensuring that the family makes an informed decision that preserves the child’s rights in both jurisdictions.
Since the full implementation of the Data Use and Access Act 2025, all nationality applications, including child registrations, are managed through digital platforms.
At First Law Solicitors, every application complies with the DUAA’s strict identity verification standards. We use encrypted digital submission portals and QES technology to guarantee both data security and Home Office acceptance.
This modern, fully digital approach reduces delays and ensures that your child’s citizenship certificate is immediately recorded in the UKVI database.
Precision in Ancestry: We trace complex family histories and confirm lineage to the highest evidential standard.
Strategic Preparation: Every registration is backed by structured evidence, clear legal reasoning, and full compliance with statutory requirements.
Cross-Border Expertise: We coordinate with international counsel where foreign birth certificates, translations, or dual nationality issues arise.
Digital Confidence: Our DUAA-compliant systems ensure that your child’s most sensitive documents are transmitted and stored securely.
At First Law Solicitors, we view each registration not only as a legal process but as the recognition of a child’s belonging to the United Kingdom.
If your child was born outside the United Kingdom and you wish to register them as a British citizen, contact First Law Solicitors today for expert legal guidance.
Call 0044 161 224 4066
Complete our secure online enquiry form to book a confidential consultation with a senior nationality solicitor.
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