You didn’t think so, but your child could be British
In some cases, a child may be able to obtain British citizenship even when this is not obvious from the documents or from the circumstances at birth.
We recently came across a situation where a child was born in the UK to a mother who held only temporary immigration status. The child’s biological father is a British citizen. However, when the birth was registered, the mother listed another person as the father on the birth certificate. Because of this, the British father was not officially recognised, and the family believed that there was no possible route for the child to become British.
Why an Incorrect Birth Record is Not Always Decisive
Where a person is in fact the biological parent, it may be possible to rely on DNA evidence to establish that relationship. In certain cases, this can allow the British citizen father to be legally recognised and may open the door for the child to apply for British citizenship, depending on the full circumstances.
The Importance of Individual Circumstances
Cases like this are highly fact-specific. The child’s date of birth, the parents’ immigration status at the time, and the existing records all play an important role. An incorrect or incomplete birth certificate does not automatically prevent an application — but the situation must be handled carefully and in the correct way.
We can assess your case and explain your options clearly, including whether DNA testing and a citizenship application may be possible. Contact us for a confidential consultation.
