British Nationality (Regularisation of Past Practice) Act 2023

British Citizenship for children of EU citizens born in the UK

The British Nationality (Regularisation of Past Practice) Act 2023 came into force on 29th June 2023. This act inserts a new section 50B into The British Nationality Act 1981 to clarify the status of those born in the UK to EU and EEA nationals.

Section 50B retrospectively confirms that children born in the UK between 1st January 1983 and 1st October 2000 to EU and EEA nationals exercising a free movement right are British Citizens. It confirms that those exercising freedom of movement were indeed ‘settled’ and therefore not subject to any time restriction to remain in the UK.

The onus is on the applicant to prove their case. Documentary evidence will be required to demonstrate that the EU or EEA parent was a qualified person exercising free movement rights at the time of the child’s birth.

If you require assistance with a British nationality matter, please contact our specialist team at BHD Solicitors in London & Croydon for assistance.