What are Citizenship
Ceremonies?
The Home Office decided in 2003
that all new British citizens over the age of 18 should participate
in a ceremony to welcome them to Britain and into their local
community, rather than just signing a document with a
solicitor.
What happens at a Citizenship Ceremony?
At every group ceremony there is a Civic Dignitary who welcomes new
citizens to Newham. The Civic Dignitary also gives new citizens a
history of the Borough. We usually also have local councillors, the
Mayor, and local MPs attending ceremonies.
The new Citizens are required as part of their ceremony to swear or
affirm an oath of allegiance to the Queen. They are also required
to make a public pledge to observe the laws of the country and
uphold its values.
The Oath of Allegiance and the Pledge:
Oath
I swear by almighty God, I do solemnly, sincerely and truly,
declare and affirm, that on becoming a British citizen, I will be
faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
and her heirs and successors according to law.
Pledge
I will give my loyalty to the United Kingdom and respect its
rights and freedoms. I will uphold its democratic values. I will
observe its laws faithfully and fulfil my duties and obligations as
a British citizen.
Nationality Certificate
Once the citizens have made their promises, the civic
dignitary presents them with their Nationality Certificate and a
commemorative medal.
At the end of the ceremony, the new citizens are required to listen
to the National Anthem (some even choose to sing
along).
Citizens who are unable to attend a group ceremony have the option
of an individual ceremony at a cost of £70 per
adult.
British Citizenship application forms (which must be returned to
the Home Office) can be obtained from the Register Office.
Contact Details
For further information please contact us on 020 8430 2000
(option 6) or
email us for
contact details and opening times.