
Main Points:
- The answer is “yes.”, but the process and eligibility requirements differ depending on several factors.
- If you were adopted in the UK by at least one British citizen, you would typically acquire British nationality automatically.
- If your child was adopted overseas before 1 June 2003, they do not automatically qualify for a passport, even if one of the parents is a British citizen.
- If your child was adopted overseas on or after 1 June 2003, they can obtain a British passport if either parent is British and the British parent usually lived in the UK at the time of the adoption.
Can You Get a Passport for Adopted?
The answer is “yes.” You can get a British passport if you were adopted, but the process and eligibility requirements differ depending on several factors.
Understanding British Nationality for Adopted Individuals
Before applying for a British passport, it’s important to understand the rules regarding British nationality for adopted individuals. British nationality laws are complex, and adoption can affect your nationality status depending on when and where the adoption occurred.
Adopted in the UK:
If you were adopted in the UK by at least one British citizen, you would typically acquire British nationality automatically. This means you should be eligible for a British passport, just like any other British citizen.
Adopted Overseas:
Adopted Before 1 June 2003
If your child was adopted before 1 June 2003, they do not automatically qualify for a British passport, even if one of the parents is a British citizen. While the adoption may be recognised for parental responsibility, it may not be recognised for nationality purposes, depending on the country where the adoption took place.
Adopted On or After 1 June 2003
If you were adopted on or after 1 June 2003, you can obtain a British passport if either parent is British and the British parent is usually living (‘habitually resident’) in the UK at the time of the adoption.
For nationality purposes, only adoptions conducted under the Hague Convention are recognized. You will need to provide the child’s full Hague Convention adoption certificate, which includes the details of the parents.
Additionally, you must provide evidence of the British parent’s nationality status, such as a British passport issued before the adoption date. Be sure to include the passport number in your application.
If you do not have a British passport, other documents can be submitted as proof of nationality.
Applying for a British Passport
Once you have established your British nationality, you can apply for a British passport. The application process for adopted individuals is similar to that of other British citizens, but you must provide additional documentation related to your adoption.
Documents You Will Need:
- Adoption Certificate: A copy of your adoption certificate will be required to confirm the details of your adoption.
- Proof of Nationality: If your British nationality was acquired through adoption, you might need to provide documents that prove this, such as a registration certificate if you were registered as a British citizen after your adoption.
- Parental Documents: You must use details from a parent’s passport that was valid on the day your child was born. It can be current or expired. You generally only need to send the following:
- Passport number
- The full name used on the passport
- The parent’s date of birth
- You do not need to post the passport.
Where to Apply: You can apply for your British passport online. Click here to apply online.
Processing Time: Standard processing times are usually around 4 to 6 weeks, but it can take longer if additional checks are required.