Citizenship ceremony
You would normally be expected to book your citizenship ceremony within 3 months of being sent an invitation from the Home Office.
Due to the current pandemic circumstances UK Visa Immigration (UKVI) have extended this period to 6 months and will keep this under constant review.
No adverse decisions will be made on applications because of delays caused by coronavirus.
Check our service updates page for the latest information and guidance.
Citizenship ceremonies are for adults whose application to become a British citizen has been accepted.
If your application is successful, it is a legal requirement that you take a citizenship pledge and an oath or allegiance at a citizenship ceremony, within 90 days of receiving your invitation.
If you don't attend a citizenship ceremony within this time, you might have to make a new application.
Invitation to a citizenship ceremony
You will receive your invitation to a citizenship ceremony with your letter of approval from the Home Office. You then need to contact us to arrange your ceremony.
If you live in Kent please email citizen@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 41 40 04
If you live in Bexley please email BexleyRegistrationCitizenship@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 41 11 03.
Types of ceremony
- In Kent, standard group citizenship ceremonies are held at The Archbishop's Palace, Mill Street, Maidstone ME15 6YE.
- In Bexley, they are held at Danson House, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HL.
- Group sizes vary from 15 to 25 people, and each applicant can bring 2 guests.
- Individual citizenship ceremonies can be held on request. There is an additional fee of £190.
Before your ceremony
If you are ready to return your details and choices to us, please complete the ceremony details form.
If you have any problems completing the form, please call 03000 41 40 04.
What to bring with you
When you attend your ceremony you will need to bring:
- your approval letter from the Home Office
- your invitation letter
- a form of ID (a passport, travel document, driving licence, a current utility bill, medical card, bankcard or benefits book).
You have the option of swearing an oath in front of God or pledging an allegiance. If you would prefer to swear an oath you can bring your own holy book. You will receive a copy of the pledge and oath from the Home Office before the ceremony.