Becoming a British Citizen
Congratulations on your British citizenship.
If you have been granted British citizenship, you must attend a citizenship ceremony within 3 months of getting your approval letter from the Home Office.
Attending a group citizenship ceremony
Your Home Office letter will tell you which register office to contact. If this is Ealing Register Office, we will email you.
The email will tell you:
- your reference number
- how to book your ceremony
- what you need to do next
If you do not get an email within 2 weeks, contact us using the enquiry form
Group ceremonies are usually on Thursday mornings. They last about 1 hour.
You can bring 1 guest with you.
There is no extra cost to attend a group citizenship ceremony.
What happens at the ceremony
At the ceremony, you will:
- swear an oath or make an affirmation
- make a pledge
The oath involves swearing to 'Almighty God'. This refers to whichever God you may believe in.
The affirmation is non-religious and makes no mention of God.
You can choose the one your prefer.
You will also:
- pledge loyalty to the King
- be presented with your Certificate of Naturalisation
You need this certificate to apply for a British Passport.
How to book
Book your citizenship ceremony
You must bring:
- your Home Office letter
- photo ID (passport or driving licence)
If you do not have photo ID, bring:
- your birth certificate or another type of ID
You cannot attend without these documents.
Children under 18
New citizens aged under 18 do not have to attend the ceremony.
A parent can collect their certificate.
If you collect for a child under 18, bring ID for each child (passport or birth certificate).
The ceremony is not suitable for children under 10 unless they are getting their citizenship.
Private ceremonies
You can ask for a private ceremony if you want a quicker or more private option.
These are usually available within a week, on weekdays or Saturdays.
To book a private ceremony contact us using the enquiry form and include:
- our unique reference number
- your full name
- your Home Office reference
- when you are available
You must pay a deposit when booking. This will go towards the total payment if you attend.
If you cancel or change your booking, you may have to pay a fee.