Citizenship application
Citizenship Ceremonies
Under the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 anyone
who applies for British citizenship must attend a citizenship
ceremony. New citizens must take an oath or affirmation of
allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen and make a pledge of
loyalty to the United Kingdom.
The Home Office, which administers all applications for British
citizenship, believes that attending a citizenship ceremony helps
new citizens to feel a sense of belonging to the wider
community. Citizenship ceremonies in Perth and Kinross are
normally held in the Old Council Chambers, 3 High Street,
Perth.
How can I apply for British Citizenship?
If you are applying to become a British Citizen you need to
contact the Home Office at Home Office IND, Managed Migration
Directorate, Nationality Group, 3rd Floor, India Buildings, Water
Street, Liverpool, L2 0QN. www.uknationality.gov.uk
Tel: 0845 010 5200 or Email: nationality.enquiries@ind.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
Applicants need to provide evidence that they not only speak the
English language but also that they can demonstrate knowledge of
life in the United Kingdom. Details about the tests required are
available on the citizenship website at www.lifeintheuktest.gov.uk
As your application process nears completion, you will be sent a
letter inviting you to attend a citizenship ceremony along
with:
- guidance notes explaining what to do next
- the wording of the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance and
Citizenship Pledge
- your personal details to check
- the telephone number and address of your local authority
How do I arrange to attend a citizenship ceremony?
Once you have received your ceremony invitation letter from the
Home Office, you must contact Perth Registration Office on 01738
475121 to arrange a date for your ceremony. You have three
months in which to attend a ceremony. If you cannot attend
within this time, we may have to withdraw your invitation and you
will have to apply and pay the fee again.
What will happen at the ceremony?
Please bring your Home Office letter stating that you have had
your application granted and the invitation that we sent you.
You may bring two guests and will need to provide their names when
making your ceremony booking.
The ceremony takes approximately ten to twenty minutes, depending
on the number of applicants who attend. The Registrar conducts
the ceremony and will explain what it means, legally, to become a
British citizen. All applicants must then take the Oath and
Pledge of Allegiance. You may swear or affirm the oath
depending on your personal wishes and religious beliefs. You
will be presented with a Certificate and commemorative gift.
Children under 18 who have applied with the parents for citizenship
may attend the citizenship ceremony. They are not required to
take the oath or pledge, but may receive their certificate as part
of the ceremony. After the ceremony you may take photographs
with family and guests.
