Section 4L British Citizenship Applications and Their Children

The introduction of Section 4L of the British Nationality Act 1981 has created new opportunities for many South Africans with British ancestry to finally claim citizenship that was previously denied because of gender discrimination in nationality law.

At Immigration Assist, we have helped numerous clients successfully apply under this new section; particularly through the UKM and ARD routes — depending on whether their connection to the United Kingdom comes from their maternal or paternal line.

What Is a Section 4L Application?

Section 4L was introduced to correct historic inequalities in British nationality law. Before 1983, British citizenship could not normally be passed down through the maternal line.

This section now allows people who would have been British if women had been able to transmit nationality in the same way as men, to register as British citizens.

Applicants who are approved under Section 4L are registered as British citizens otherwise than by descent. This status is significant because it allows them to pass British citizenship on to their children born after registration.

For more details on the current legislation, see the official UK Government guidance on nationality rules.

Route 1: Through the Mother (Form UKM)

Many successful applications are made under the maternal route where:

  • The applicant was born in South Africa after 31 May 1961 and before 1983,
  • The applicant’s maternal grandmother was born in the United Kingdom, and
  • The applicant applies under Form UKM.

Once registered, the applicant becomes a British citizen otherwise than by descent. Any children born after the applicant’s registration date are automatically British citizens by descent and can apply directly for a UK passport.

If the applicant has children born before registration, they may still qualify to be registered as British citizens using Form MN1, provided they are under 18 years old at the time of application.

For related information, see:

The MN1 Discretionary Route for Children

Children under 18 whose parents become British citizens under Section 4L; via either UKM or ARD, can apply for registration as British citizens using Form MN1.

Key details:

  • The application fee is £1,226,
  • Applicants must attend biometric enrolment and upload supporting documents online,
  • The process typically takes around six months,
  • Once approved, the child becomes a British citizen by descent and can apply for a UK passport.

For a step-by-step guide on the process, read our article on British Citizenship Applications for Children, or contact Immigration Assist for personalised assistance.

Route 2: Through the Father (Form ARD)

The paternal route under Section 4L applies where:

  • The applicant was born in South Africa after 31 May 1961 and before 1983,
  • The applicant’s paternal grandmother was born in the United Kingdom, and
  • The applicant applies using Form ARD.

This is a free application, and once approved, the applicant is registered as a British citizen otherwise than by descent.

As with the maternal line:

  • Children born after registration automatically qualify as British by descent,
  • Children born before registration may apply under the MN1 discretionary route, if they are under 18 when applying.

Why Choose Immigration Assist

The British nationality system is complex, with eligibility often depending on exact dates of birth, parental lineage, and documentation.

At Immigration Assist, we:

  • Assess eligibility under Section 4L, UKM, ARD, and MN1,
  • Prepare and submit all forms and supporting evidence,
  • Assist with unabridged birth certificates, vault copies, and apostilles needed for UK nationality and passport applications,
  • Offer end-to-end support until your British citizenship registration or passport is complete.

If you’re also considering a UK move, you might find our guide on the UK Ancestry Visa helpful.

Get Expert Help

If your parent or grandparent was born in the UK, and you believe you may qualify for British citizenship under Section 4L, our experienced team can help.

We will review your family history, confirm your eligibility, and manage your application with accuracy and care.

Contact Immigration Assist today to start your British citizenship journey.

 


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