Will Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma's son Akaay, inherit British citizenship?

India's cricket icon Virat Kohli and Bollywood superstar Anushka Sharma recently shared the joyous news of the birth of their second child Akaay, on February 15. As the news spread, fans and followers became curious regarding the citizenship status of Akaay, who was reportedly born in London, United Kingdom. Fans speculated whether Akaay automatically attains UK citizenship owing to his birthplace and his parents' ties to the country.

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— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) February 20, 2024

What are the UK's rules on citizenship?

However, as per UK citizenship regulations, not every child born in the UK is entitled to British citizenship by birth. According to Immigration Advice Services, a child does not inherently become a British citizen unless at least one parent holds UK citizenship. Thus, for children born in the UK to British parents, British citizenship can be claimed automatically.

Moreover, if a child is born outside the UK to one or more British parents, they must register their citizenship status to access their British passport and associated rights, as per the guidelines.

While Akaay may not acquire British citizenship by birth, his birth in the UK can facilitate the citizenship acquisition process. The regulations stipulate that Akaay is eligible for registration as a British citizen, particularly if he resides in the UK until at least the age of 10.

Who can be an Indian citizen?

On the other hand, the Ministry of Home Affairs GOI outlines distinct eligibility criteria for Indian citizenship. According to these guidelines, individuals born in India between specified dates automatically acquire Indian citizenship, subject to the nationality status of their parents at the time of birth. Notably, The Indian Constitution prohibits dual citizenship for nationals.