Registration Service

Citizenship Ceremonies

If you have just become a British citizen then you are required to make an oath and pledge of loyalty, for this you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony. This is an occasion to welcome you into the community and we hope that you will enjoy the ceremony.

Why have British Citizenship Ceremonies?

We are required by the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 to ensure that a new British citizen takes an oath and pledge of loyalty to the Queen and all the laws of the United Kingdom.

What happens when my application for British Citizenship is accepted?

When your application for British citizenship is granted, we are then sent the certificates by the Home Office. On the day we receive your certificate you will be sent an invitation and asked to contact us so that an appointment can be made to hold your citizenship ceremony.

Where will the ceremony take place?

We normally hold group ceremonies every other Monday evening at the Civic Centre. We do 2 ceremonies each for 40 new citizens plus their guests in the Council Chamber.

We also conduct private individual ceremonies if you wish to hold it at Arden House, during normal working hours. However, there is an additional charge for this of £50. Unfortunately there is no civic dignitary to present the certificate but we do take a photo and print it then and there and you will receive this as a gift.

What happens during the ceremony?

Either the Mayor or Deputy Mayor is present to give a short speech of welcome into the community and will present you with a citizenship certificate. You will also get an individual photo taken with the Mayor and this is their gift from us. You will also have the opportunity to purchase a group photo.

Refreshments are served after each ceremony. After the Mayor's speech you will then take your oath of allegiance, you may choose to swear or affirm.

Checking service for those applying for British Citizenship|

If you are applying to become a British citizen then we can help you by checking your forms are correctly filled in and also checking, copying and certifying your supporting documents.

Ceremony Information|

Find out about what is actually said during a citizenship ceremony.

Contact

Superintendent Registrar

Arden House Register Office

198 Longbridge Road

Barking

IG11 8SY

Tel: 020 8270 4744

Fax: 020 8270 4745

Email: register.office@lbbd.gov.uk|