Overview of UK Citizenship Ceremonies
If you have successfully applied to become a British citizen and are aged 18 or over, you are required to attend a citizenship ceremony. This ceremony is the final step in becoming a British citizen, where you will make an oath or affirmation of allegiance to His Majesty the King and a pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom.
Booking Your Ceremony
Your local authority will organise your citizenship ceremony. You can choose to have a group ceremony or request a private ceremony if you prefer. To book your ceremony, contact your local authority using the number provided on your invitation letter. When booking, you may be asked about your preference for a group or individual ceremony, the number of guests you wish to bring, and whether you intend to make an oath or affirmation of allegiance.
What to Expect During the Ceremony
During the ceremony, you will be required to make an oath or affirmation of allegiance to His Majesty the King and a pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom. You can choose to make the oath or affirmation in English or Welsh. After making the oath or affirmation and pledge, you will be presented with your certificate of British citizenship.
Post-Ceremony Actions
After attending the ceremony, you will receive your certificate of British citizenship. It is important to check that the details on the certificate are correct. If any details need to be amended, you should return the certificate to the UKVI Department. Your certificate constitutes legal evidence of your acquisition of British citizenship and should be carefully preserved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to attend a citizenship ceremony if I am under 18?
Children under 18 who have applied with their parents may attend a ceremony with other members of the family to collect their certificate. They do not have to take the Oath/Affirmation or Pledge, but may do so. If they do not attend the ceremony, another family member may collect their certificate.
How many guests can I bring to the ceremony?
You are usually allowed to bring two guests to your ceremony. If you would like more guests to attend, please discuss this when you arrange the ceremony.
Can I have the ceremony abroad?
You can ask the embassy or consulate in the country you are living in if you can have the ceremony there instead. If you are only abroad for a short time, you might be asked to postpone the ceremony until you return to the UK. You must still book your ceremony within three months of getting an invitation.
What if I want to make an oath of allegiance?
If you are going to make an oath of allegiance, you may bring a holy book with you if you want to.
What happens if I don't attend the ceremony?
You will not be a British citizen until you have attended the ceremony. Please do not wait more than 14 days from the date you receive your invitation letter. The ceremony must take place within three months.
Can I laminate my certificate of British citizenship?
Your certificate of registration or naturalisation constitutes legal evidence of your acquisition of British citizenship and should be carefully preserved. It must not be unofficially altered or laminated as in this condition it will not be accepted as evidence of citizenship by His Majesty’s Passport Office.
This guide provides general information only and does not constitute individual legal advice. For specific advice, please consult with a qualified immigration adviser. Learn more about our British Citizenship services.