Naturalisation as British Citizen: The Ceremony and What Comes After

Receiving your naturalisation approval is the culmination of years of building your life in the UK. But the process isn’t quite complete until you’ve attended your citizenship ceremony. Our Bolton British citizenship solicitors explain what happens after your application is approved.

The Citizenship Ceremony

Once your naturalisation application is approved, you will receive an invitation to a citizenship ceremony, typically held at your local council offices. In Bolton, ceremonies are held at Bolton Town Hall. You must attend the ceremony within 3 months of receiving your invitation.

Taking the Oath or Affirmation

At the ceremony, you will take an Oath of Allegiance or Affirmation to the King and a pledge to respect the rights and freedoms of the UK and fulfil your duties as a citizen. The oath/affirmation is administered by a representative of the local authority. Guests (usually family) are welcome to attend.

Your Certificate of Naturalisation

At the ceremony, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalisation — the formal proof of your British citizenship. This document should be kept safe. You will need it if you ever need to apply for a replacement British passport or prove your citizenship status.

Applying for a British Passport

Your Certificate of Naturalisation allows you to apply for a British passport. You apply via HM Passport Office and must provide your Certificate of Naturalisation, a countersignature from a suitable professional, and two passport photographs. Processing typically takes 3–5 weeks.

Children’s Citizenship

Your British citizenship does not automatically confer citizenship on your children born before your naturalisation. Children born after you are naturalised acquire British citizenship by birth if they are born in the UK or abroad with certain conditions. Children born before your naturalisation may need to apply for registration as British citizens separately.