How Chagossian Descendants Can Register as British Overseas Territories Citizens and British Citizens

By Immigrationist.io | Published April 12, 2025

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The journey to British citizenship for Chagossian descendants has been a long and complex one, rooted in historical events that displaced an entire community. Thanks to the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, a bespoke pathway now exists for direct descendants of those born in the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) to register as both British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) and British Citizens. At Immigrationist.io, we’re here to guide you through this process, offering clear, actionable advice to help you navigate this unique opportunity.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore eligibility criteria, the application process, required documents, and key deadlines for Chagossian descendants seeking British nationality. Whether you’re applying for yourself or a family member, understanding this route can open doors to new possibilities in the UK and beyond.

Understanding the Chagossian Citizenship Route

The Chagossian people, originally inhabitants of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), also known as the Chagos Archipelago, were forcibly removed from their homeland between the 1960s and 1970s, primarily to Mauritius and Seychelles. This displacement severed their ability to pass British nationality to subsequent generations born outside BIOT. The UK government recognized this injustice, and on November 23, 2022, launched a tailored registration route to address it.

Under Section 17H of the British Nationality Act 1981, direct descendants of Chagossians born in BIOT can now apply for BOTC and British citizenship. This route is free of charge, reflecting the UK’s commitment to rectifying historical wrongs. But who exactly qualifies, and how can you apply? Let’s break it down.

Who Is Eligible for Chagossian Citizenship Registration?

To qualify for registration as a BOTC and/or British Citizen, you must meet two key criteria:

1. Direct Descent: You must be a direct descendant of someone born on the islands that now form the BIOT. This includes biological children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and so forth. However, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, or other non-direct relatives do not qualify.

2. No Prior British Nationality: You must never have held British Overseas Territories Citizenship, British Dependent Territories Citizenship, or British Citizenship previously.

For example, if your grandmother was born on Diego Garcia (a BIOT island) and you were born in Mauritius, you could be eligible as her direct descendant. This applies regardless of where you currently reside, making it accessible to Chagossians worldwide.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about your lineage, the BIOT Administration may assist in verifying ancestry records from 1878 to 1971.

Why Apply for British Citizenship as a Chagossian Descendant?

Registering as a British Citizen offers significant benefits, including:

• Right to Live in the UK: British citizenship grants unrestricted access to live, work, and study in the UK without visa restrictions. Learn more about life in the UK.

• Access to Services: Citizens can access the NHS, education, and social benefits on par with other UK residents.

• Global Mobility: A British passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 180 countries, according to the Henley Passport Index.

• Dual Citizenship Option: The UK permits dual citizenship, so you may retain your existing nationality in most cases.

BOTC status, while distinct, connects you to the British Overseas Territories and may be a point of pride for those with Chagossian heritage. You can choose to apply for BOTC only, BOTC and British citizenship, or British citizenship if you already hold BOTC.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Chagossian Citizenship

The application process is straightforward, with options to apply online or by post. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need to provide evidence of your direct descent from a BIOT-born ancestor. Common documents include:

• Birth certificates for yourself and your BIOT-born ancestor (e.g., parent, grandparent).

• A valid passport or national identity card.

• Two referee statements to verify your identity. Referees must:

  • Have known you for at least three years (for adults).

  • Be a British passport holder or a Commonwealth/country-of-residence citizen.

  • Be a professional or over 25 years old.

If you lack specific documents, don’t worry—UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) can search their records to verify your claim. The Chagossian records website may also help locate birth, marriage, or death records.

Step 2: Choose Your Application Method

• Online Application: Visit the official GOV.UK page to complete the form. After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation email from UKVI.

• Paper Application: Download Form BIOT and mail it to:

  Dept 163 – BIOT – (Registration for direct descendants of Chagossians) 4th Floor, Capital Building New Hall Place Liverpool L3 9PP United Kingdom

Note: Online applicants can upload documents digitally before their biometric appointment, while paper applicants must include originals with their form.

Step 3: Book a Biometric Appointment

After submitting your application, UKVI will email you to schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre. You’ll provide fingerprints, a photograph, and any physical documents for scanning. Bring your passport or ID to this appointment.

Step 4: Attend a Citizenship Ceremony (if applicable)

Successful applicants for British citizenship may need to attend a citizenship ceremony, where you’ll swear an oath or affirmation of allegiance. You’ll receive a citizenship certificate, but note that this cannot be used for travel—you’ll need a British passport or a certificate of entitlement to the right of abode.

Key Deadlines to Remember

The Chagossian citizenship route has time limits:

• Adults (18+ on November 23, 2022): You must apply by November 23, 2027.

• Children (under 18 on November 23, 2022, or born between November 23, 2022, and November 23, 2027): You have until your 23rd birthday to apply.

Missing these deadlines could mean losing your entitlement, so act promptly.

Challenges and Tips for a Successful Application

While the process is designed to be accessible, some challenges may arise:

• Missing Documents: Birth records from BIOT may be incomplete. Contact ChagossianEnquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk (mailto:ChagossianEnquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk) for help.

• Language Barriers: If English isn’t your first language, request an interpreter at your biometric appointment.

• Technical Issues: If you struggle with online forms, visit a local library or seek help from community organizations like the Chagossian Voices.

Top Tips:

• Double-check your documents for accuracy before submission.

• Keep copies of everything you send.

• Apply early to avoid last-minute delays.

What Happens After You Gain Citizenship?

Once registered, you can:

• Apply for a British passport to travel or settle in the UK.

• Access UK government support for Chagossians, including community projects in Mauritius and the UK.

• Explore job opportunities on Diego Garcia, though residency on BIOT is restricted without special permission.

If you plan to move to the UK, review the pre-departure information pack for guidance on housing, employment, and healthcare.

Why This Matters for Chagossian Descendants

The Chagossian citizenship route is more than a legal process—it’s a recognition of a community’s resilience and heritage. By registering, you reclaim a connection to your roots while gaining opportunities to build a future in the UK or elsewhere. At Immigrationist.io, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your immigration journey.

If you’re ready to apply or need personalized advice, explore our immigration resources or contact our team for support. The path to British citizenship is open—take the first step today.