Can I register a child aged under 18 as a British subject?
This page provides details of how a person under 18 can register as a British subject using application form MN4. Within this section, a person under 18 will be referred to as a child.
You should read the information in this section before you make an application for registration. You will need to pay a fee when you make your application. If you make an application for registration and it is unsuccessful, we will not refund your fee.
To be able to register as a British subject using application form MN4 the child must be under 18 on the day we receive the application. Once the child turns 18 he/she will need to apply for registration as an adult.
If the child meets the requirements for registration you should go to the section on applying for registration as a British subject by a person under 18.
Children who have automatically become a British subject do not need to register. You should read the page British subjects for more details.
You should contact us for advice before you make an application if the child:
- is stateless; or
- holds another type of British nationality; or
- was born in the United Kingdom.
The requirements the child needs to meet
There are no formal requirements for registration of a child as a British subject. All registrations will be at our discretion.
The following factors will be considered when we decide whether to register the child as a British subject:
- the child's nationality - we will not normally register a child who already has or can acquire another nationality or citizenship; and
- the family's personal circumstances - the child's lack of a passport must be causing genuine difficulties. For example, the child is unable to benefit from health care, education or is at risk of deportation; and
- where the family's future is likely to lie; and
- the views of the parents; and
- the nationality of the parents; and
- whether the child is of good character - this only applies if the child is over 10.
See also
Terms explained
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Discretion
This means we can consider the particular circumstances and in special cases grant an application.