British Citizenship for Babies Born in the UK to ILR Parents: A Complete 2025 Guide

Babies Born in the UK,

When both parents hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK and welcome a child, the child’s nationality status becomes a critical concern. In this complete guide, we explore every aspect of how British citizenship applies to babies born under these circumstances, including eligibility criteria, registration steps, passport application, associated costs, and what to do if the child is born abroad.

Understanding British Citizenship for UK-Born Babies

Who Qualifies as a British Citizen at Birth?

Under the British Nationality Act 1981, a child born in the UK automatically becomes a British citizen at birth if, at the time of their birth, at least one parent is:

A British citizen, or
Settled in the UK (holding ILR, EU Settled Status, or Permanent Residence)

Therefore, if both parents hold Indefinite Leave to Remain, the baby will automatically be a British citizen, provided they are born in the UK.

Key Benefits of Citizenship at Birth

No need to apply for ILR for the child
Free access to education and the NHS
Eligible for a British passport immediately
Full rights to live, work, and remain in the UK for life

Step-by-Step: What to Do After the Baby is Born in the UK

1. Register the Birth

When: Within 42 days of the child’s birth
Where: At your local register office
What You’ll Need:
Baby’s birth details
Parent(s)’ proof of ID and immigration status (ILR BRP cards or Home Office letters)

More info: Register a birth in England and Wales

2. Apply for a British Passport

Once the child’s birth is registered, you can apply for a British child passport.

Required Documents:

Birth certificate
Both parents’ BRPs or passports showing ILR status
Completed passport application (online or paper)
A passport photo of the child
A countersignatory (for first passports)

Cost of a UK Child Passport in 2025:

Application Method	Price	Processing Time
Online	£53.50	~3 weeks
Paper Form	£64.00	~3 weeks
1-week Fast Track	£122	1 week
Premium (same-day)	Not available for children	N/A

Apply online: UK Passport Application

Supporting Evidence of ILR Status for Parents

You must prove both parents had settled status (ILR) at the time of the child’s birth. Acceptable documents include:

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) showing “Indefinite Leave to Remain”
Home Office decision letters
Naturalisation certificates (if applicable)

What If the Baby Is Born Abroad?

If both parents have ILR but the baby is born outside the UK, the child is not automatically a British citizen. You must:

Apply to register the child as a British citizen (under Section 3(1) of the British Nationality Act)
Provide evidence of parents’ settled status and residence
Pay a registration fee of £1,214 (as of 2025)
Once registered, apply for a British passport

More details: Register as a British citizen

Common Scenarios and Outcomes

✅ Baby born in the UK – both parents have ILR at birth

→ Child is automatically a British citizen

✅ Baby born in the UK – one parent has ILR

→ Child is still automatically a British citizen

✅ Baby born in the UK before parents got ILR

→ Child is not British at birth but can be registered as a citizen later

✅ Baby born abroad – both parents have ILR

→ Child is not automatically British but can be registered

Passport Application Rejections: Common Mistakes

Missing proof of ILR at the time of birth
Incorrect birth certificate type (must be full version showing parents’ names)
No countersignature
Using an outdated or unaccepted passport photo

Double-check your application to avoid delays or rejection.

Dual Nationality Considerations

If the parents hold another nationality and the child gains British citizenship at birth:

The child may automatically acquire dual nationality
Some countries do not permit dual citizenship—check with your embassy
The UK allows dual nationality without restriction

What Happens If ILR Is Granted After Birth?

If the parents receive ILR after the baby is born, the child is not automatically British, but you may:

Apply to register the child as a British citizen (Form MN1)
Pay the applicable fee (£1,214)
Provide proof of parents’ ILR and child’s birth in the UK

External Resources

Visual Guide: British Citizenship at Birth – ILR Parents

Situation	Born in UK	British at Birth?	Action Required
Both parents have ILR before birth	✅	✅ Yes	Apply for passport only
One parent has ILR before birth	✅	✅ Yes	Apply for passport only
Parents get ILR after baby is born	✅	❌ No	Register child using Form MN1
Baby born abroad, parents have ILR	❌	❌ No	Register as British then apply
Both parents are British citizens	✅	✅ Yes	Apply for passport only

FAQs

Do I need to apply for citizenship for a baby born in the UK to ILR parents?

No. The child is automatically British at birth if at least one parent had ILR when the baby was born.

How long does a child passport take?

Standard applications take about 3 weeks, but faster options are available for urgent travel.

Can I travel with my baby without a passport?

No. Even newborns need their own passport to travel internationally.

Is it better to register or naturalise a child?

If eligible, automatic citizenship at birth is best. Registration is required only when the child is not automatically British.

Final Thoughts

Securing your child’s British citizenship from birth is straightforward when both parents have ILR. It provides them with lifelong rights and access to all the benefits of being a British citizen. Applying early for a passport ensures no delays in travel, documentation, or identity recognition. For families building a future in the UK, this is one of the most secure and advantageous legal statuses a child can receive.

Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Immigration laws may change. For the most accurate and up-to-date advice, consult an immigration solicitor or visit gov.uk.