The United Kingdom government has detailed the final mandatory step for foreigners whose applications for British citizenship have been approved. According to the official UK government portal, receiving an approval letter from the Home Office does not automatically confer citizenship; successful applicants must complete a citizenship ceremony to legally become British citizens.
Citizenship Ceremony: A Legal Requirement
Any person aged 18 or over who has successfully applied to become a British citizen is required to attend a citizenship ceremony. This ceremony is a legal requirement and must be completed within three months of receiving the official invitation letter from the Home Office. The ceremonies are organised by local government councils (local authorities) across the United Kingdom.
What Happens During the Ceremony
The citizenship ceremony is the official moment when the applicant takes the state pledge. During the event, applicants must perform three key actions:
- Take an Oath of Allegiance: Applicants must swear an oath of allegiance to the Monarch. Those who prefer not to swear by God may opt to make a solemn affirmation instead.
- Make a Pledge: This is a formal promise to respect the rights, freedoms, and laws of the United Kingdom.
- Receive the Certificate: After completing the oaths and pledges, new citizens are presented with their official Certificate of British Citizenship and a welcome pack. This certificate is the vital document required to apply for a British passport.
Exception Under the Windrush Scheme
The UK government noted a special exception for individuals who become British citizens under the historic Windrush scheme. For these applicants, attending the citizenship ceremony is completely optional, and they will not be charged any ceremony fees.
Exemptions from the Ceremony
The Home Office clarified that a citizenship ceremony is not required for individuals registering to become a British Overseas Territories Citizen, a British Overseas Citizen, or a British Subject. However, even these categories are still legally required to make a written oath or affirmation of allegiance, with instructions sent to them by the Home Office.
Guidelines for Foreign Spouses
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the UK government published official guidelines for foreigners who want to become British citizens through marriage to a UK national. The guidelines specify a mandatory three-year physical presence requirement in the UK before an application can be submitted to the Home Office.
