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With effect from 1 January 2004, under the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002, all successful adult applicants for British citizenship will be required to attend a citizenship ceremony. |
Under the Act 2002 local authorities have a statutory obligation to organise ceremonies at which a Superintendent Registrar or their deputy is required to administer the oath of allegiance to the Queen and pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom. Applicants are required to attend a ceremony within three months of their application being approved and British citizenship is not conferred until this has taken place.
Citizenship ceremonies are a legal requirement for all new citizens and the Government hopes that they will also be significant and memorable events that will welcome them into their local authority area.
Northamptonshire County Council are offering a standard ceremony which applicants may choose and these will be group ceremonies whereby applicants can invite up to two guests to witness the ceremony.
The ceremonies will be held generally on a monthly basis at various locations throughout the county at either Register Offices or other Council owned premises.
Alternatively applicants may choose to have a customised ceremony at a public location of their choice with unlimited guests. This will be subject to an additional fee depending on date, time and location. The current fees for a private ceremony are as follows:
- Monday to Friday - £150
- Saturday - £200
- Sunday, Bank or Public Holiday - £250
For further information on any matters relating to Citizenship Ceremonies, please use the contact details on the right.