Citizenship Ceremonies
Update: 25/03/2020 All citizenship ceremonies have been suspended until further notice. Click here for more details.
New citizens would usually be expected to book their citizenship ceremony within three months of being sent an invitation from the Home Office. Due to the current pandemic circumstances, UKVI have extended this period to six month.
No adverse decisions will be made on applications because of delays caused by Coronavirus.
Please do not contact us for further information. We will be in contact with all new citizens whose ceremony has been cancelled and will arrange a new date when the lockdown has been lifted.
Citizenship ceremonies complete the path for foreign nationals who are granted British citizenship and formally welcome them into the community.
New Citizens will receive an invitation from the Home Office to book a ceremony once their British citizenship application is successful.
Before booking a ceremony, you need to decide whether you want a group ceremony or a private ceremony.
You will need to know:
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The reference that comes on your invitation from the Home Office
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Whether you will swear (includes a reference to God) or affirm (no reference to God) the Oath required
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If you are bringing up to two guests
You can book a place in a group ceremony by phoning 0345 045 5155 (Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm, and on Saturdays,9am-1pm).
Group ceremonies are held most Wednesdays throughout the year. Please arrive from 1.45pm (no later than 2pm) and report to the main reception at Shire Hall.
The ceremony usually finishes at 3pm and refreshments are served after the ceremony.
Official photographs taken at the ceremony will be available to buy. No parking is available but there is a nearby pay and display. Two disabled parking bays are available outside Castle Lodge.
If you would prefer to book a private ceremony, please telephone 01223 715 500 between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday. The fee is £235 from Mondays to Thursdays and £355 on Friday.