Citizenship Ceremonies

There have been important changes to the way British citizenship is granted to people applying to register or naturalise.

Under the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002, successful applicants to attend citizenship ceremonies held in their local communities.

At the citizenship ceremony, new citizens make an oath or affirmation to Her Majesty the Queen and a pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom. After this the citizen receives a certificate.

A website relating to Citizenship Ceremonies (external link) is now available.

Cheshire County Council is responsible for organising ceremonies for successful applicants living in the County.  There is usually one ceremony per month and the venue for the ceremony changes, but is always within Cheshire.

The ceremony begins with a welcoming speech, and the applicants then swear or affirm an 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 conferredAs soon as Cheshire County Council's Registration Service (external link) 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.  Once this has been received, the applicant will be notified about the date of their ceremony.

Applicants can also speak to a dedicated Citizenship Support Officer on Thursdays on telephone number 01244 603761 if they have any questions.