Registration Service 

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.

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.

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.

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 £60. Unfortunately there is no civic dignitary to present the certificate.

The 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.

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.