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RIGHT OF ABODE

OVERVIEW

Having the Right of Abode means you are permitted to live and work in the UK without any immigration restrictions. This includes:

  • No Visa Required: You do not need a visa to enter the UK.

  • Unlimited Stay: There is no limit on the length of time you can spend in the UK.

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Eligibility:

  • British Citizens: All British citizens automatically have the Right of Abode in the UK.

  • Commonwealth Citizens: Some Commonwealth citizens may also have the Right of Abode.

 

Proof of Right of Abode:

  • You can prove your Right of Abode if you hold a UK passport stating that you are a British citizen or British subject with the Right of Abode.

  • If you do not have this passport, you will need to apply for a Certificate of Entitlement.

 

Certificate of Entitlement:

  • This certificate is issued in your current passport and remains valid until your passport expires.

  • You will need to reapply for a new certificate when you get a new passport.

  • There is no limit on the number of times you can apply for the Right of Abode.

Image by Roberto Catarinicchia
Eligibility for Right of Abode

You have the Right of Abode if all of the following apply:

  • Parental Citizenship: One of your parents was born in the UK and was a citizen of the United Kingdom and Colonies at the time of your birth or adoption.

  • Commonwealth Citizenship: You were a Commonwealth citizen as of 31 December 1982.

  • Continuous Commonwealth Citizenship: You have not ceased being a Commonwealth citizen (even temporarily) at any time since 31 December 1982.

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