Frequently Asked Questions

New and Updated FAQs

Is a child born in Britain to American parents automatically a British Citizen?

Of course, the answer to that isn't straightforward, it depends on residence. Presuming that child was born in the UK after 1983, they are a citizen if:
  • One parent is a British citizen, or,
  • One parent has become a British citizen or settled in the UK since the birth and the child is under 18 when applying, or,
  • The child was born in the UK and lived in the UK until they are 10 or older
For more details and applications see Gov.uk, Register as a British...

How can I stay and become a permanent resident as an overseas student in the UK?

If you are in the UK on a Tier 4 student visa, then you currently have no way to stay permanently in the UK because you cannot count time on a student visa towards permanent residency. If you wish to be able to stay after your degree, you will need to find a company to sponsor you for a Tier 2 work visa. If you have a degree from a UK university and are still in the UK on a valid Tier 4 visa it is easier to qualify for a Tier 2 than if you are not in the UK and don't have a UK degree. If you...

How do I get US size passport photos while in the UK?

US and UK passport photos are different, but there a number of ways to get photos that meet US passport photo requirements that are published on the embassy website. 1 The embassy has lists of photographers, however most professional photography studios have camera settings that meet the requirements. US passport photo requirements are also the same as the photos for US visa applications. Some photo booths also support US visa photos, such as those found outside stores such as Sainsbury's or at...

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