Guidance

How to apply for British citizenship as a person of Chagossian descent

Registration as a British Overseas Territories citizen and British citizen: Chagossian descendant.

• From: Home Office
• Published: 23 November 2022
• Last updated: 20 July 2026
  Show all updates

  1. 20 July 2026

     Updated with details about the priority service.

  2. 10 March 2026

     Updated the wording to remove reference to the right of abode (ROA) being placed in a passport following the move to digital ROA certificates.

  3. 30 April 2025

     Updated the section on getting help making an application with information on the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA).

  4. 15 April 2025

     Guidance updated on evidence of identity, returning BRPs, citizenship-related queries and digital status.

  5. 8 April 2025

     Updated information on the use and return of biometric residence permits and updated information about contacting UKVI.

  6. 27 March 2025

     Updated the list of identity documents as you can use an expired biometric residence permit for 18 months after the expiry date printed on the card.

  7. 24 July 2024

     Update to travel advice after becoming British.

  8. 4 October 2023

     Document format and style updated. Outdated information removed or updated accordingly. References and links to fees updated.

  9. 2 December 2022

     Minor updates made to sending and uploading documents section.

  10. 23 November 2022

      First published.

Documents

Registration as a British Overseas Territories citizen and British citizen: Chagossian descendant (accessible)

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Registration as a British Overseas Territories citizen and British citizen: Chagossian descendant

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Details

A guide for people who are the direct descendants of Chagossians born in the British Indian Ocean Territory and who want to apply for British citizenship.