Citizenship Ceremonies
Citizenship ceremonies came into being on 1 January 2004 as a result of provisions contained within the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002. The task of delivering these ceremonies was delegated to local authorities and specifically to the Registration Service, who were already responsible for civil marriages. The celebratory nature of the ceremonies we conduct at the Register Office are ideally suited to the concept of citizenship ceremonies.
Citizenship ceremonies give added significance to attaining citizenship and provide an occasion at which the applicant, their family and close friends, can celebrate a life defining moment. It also provides the local authority with an opportunity to welcome their new citizens into the community and encourage participation in the democratic process.
At the ceremony, every applicant for British citizenship is required to swear an oath of allegiance to the Crown and make a pledge to uphold the values and laws of the UK. Liverpool wishes the ceremonies to be enjoyable and meaningful events. Local dignitaries attend each ceremony in order to give a local feel to the event.
Liverpool's cultural diversity is a cause for celebration and the citizenship ceremonies are an opportunity for the Council to welcome new citizens to the City, whilst reinforcing the fact that becoming a citizen carried with it both rights and responsibilities. The ceremonies help encourage new citizens to play an active part in the community.
For further information contact our dedicated officer on: 233 4971
To find out about the application process for gaining British citizenship, rather than ceremony arrangements, visit the Home Office website.
Application form from www.uknationality.gov.uk