Register a birth

British citizenship

The child will be a British citizen if, on the day the child is born, either parent is:

  • a British citizen, or
  • settled for immigration purposes.

If neither parent is a British citizen or settled for immigration purposes when the child is born, the child will not be a British citizen.

How a child can become a British citizen

A child is entitled to be registered as a British citizen once either of their parents:

  • becomes settled for immigration purposes in this country, or 
  • becomes a British citizen.

Visit the government’s website for more information on applying for British citizenship.