About citizenship ceremonies
If you have been granted British citizenship, you must attend a citizenship ceremony within three months of approval being granted. This is a formal occasion to welcome you into your new community and to celebrate your new status as a British citizen.
During the ceremony, you will take an oath to His Majesty the King and a pledge of loyalty to the UK. You will also receive your certificate of British citizenship.
The ceremony is a special opportunity to mark your new beginning as a British citizen. It is also a chance to meet other new citizens and to learn more about your local community.
How to arrange a ceremony
Once you have received your letter of approval from the Home Office, please contact Knowsley Register Office to find out which citizenship ceremony you can attend.
What happens at a citizenship ceremony
- A standard group citizenship ceremony will include the following:
- Introduction and welcome
- Address by a local dignitary
- Swearing or affirming the oath and pledge
- Official response
- Presentation of the citizenship certificate
On the day of the ceremony you must bring your approval letter from the Home Office, the letter you receive from Knowsley Register Office and your photographic identification. Without these documents you may be refused admission to the ceremony.
Private citizenship ceremonies
Citizenship ceremonies are usually conducted in groups to highlight the community nature of citizenship. However, if you would like to have a more personal ceremony, Knowsley Registration Service can offer a private ceremony for a fee.