Citizenship

From 1st January 2004, anyone over the age of 18 who successfully applies to become a British Citizen must take part in a citizenship ceremony

The aim of the citizenship ceremony is to enable applicants to gain a full understanding of the rights and responsibilities that come with the acquisition of British citizenship and also to ensure that they are properly welcomed into the community.

It is intended to ensure that the acquisition of citizenship is not a purely bureaucratic process.

Worcestershire County Council is responsible for organising ceremonies for successful applicants living in the County. There is usually one ceremony per month and the venue is the Council Chamber at County Hall.  Individual Ceremonies are also available for those unable to attend the date scheduled.

The ceremony begins with a welcoming speech, and the applicants then swear or affirm the oath of allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen and give a pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom before being presented with their citizenship certificates. The presentation of the certificate marks the point at which British citizenship is conferred.

As soon as Worcestershire County Council's Registration Service receives notification that an applicant has been successful, the applicant is contacted by letter and asked to complete a questionnaire. The purpose of the questionnaire is to establish further details, such as whether the applicant wishes to swear or affirm the oath and whether any guests will be attending the ceremony. The applicant will be given a choice of two ceremony dates.

Anyone inquiring about ceremonies should contact:

Citizenship Ceremonies Support Team
Home Office
Managed Migration Nationality Group
PO Box 306
3rd Floor
India Buildings
Water Street
Liverpool
L2 0QN

Tel: 0845 010 5200

For information about citizenship generally, go to:

www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk/britishcitizenship/