Were people born in the UK before 1983 automatically British?

The law changed on 1 January 1983. People born in the UK before that date are usually British citizens automatically by virtue of being born on UK soil.

There are limited exceptions, for example if your father was a foreign diplomat at the time of your birth. If you fall under the automatic category you typically would not register; instead you would apply for a British passport or a document confirming your status. If your status is unclear, check the GOV.UK guidance or seek advice before applying.