British citizenship ceremonies
Citizenship ceremonies are a way of formally welcoming you as a British citizen.
You can only book your ceremony if you have your Home Office invitation letter or email. You cannot book a ceremony on an approval or decision letter.
You must attend a citizenship ceremony within three months of getting your invitation. If you cannot do this, you’ll need to contact the Home Office.
Important
You need to be granted British citizenship before you can book a citizenship ceremony.
Apply to become a British citizen on GOV.UK
Choose a group or private ceremony
Group ceremony
This will be in a group setting where you'll attend with other citizens. The ceremony takes place on a Wednesday. It'll last about 45 minutes.
You can bring one adult guest. Children are not allowed.
There is no cost with this ceremony.
Private ceremony
This will be a more personal ceremony with you and any guests you choose to invite. You can bring up to eight guests. The ceremony lasts about 20 minutes.
The cost is £142 for each adult.
During the ceremony
The ceremony will take place at Redbridge Town Hall. The Deputy Superintendent
Registrar will conduct the ceremony.
You’ll either do one of the following:
- swear the Oath (swearing to God)
- say the Affirmation (not mentioning God)
You’ll also say the Pledge of Loyalty to the UK.
You’ll be presented with a certificate of British citizenship.
There is an opportunity to take photos at the end of the ceremony.
What you need to bring
You’ll need:
- your email or original invitation letter from the Home Office
- your passport or photo ID
It’s important you bring the right documents to the ceremony.
The ceremony is a formal occasion. We recommend you wear smart casual clothes.
Book your ceremony
You’ll need:
- your full name
- a copy or email of the Home Office invitation letter
You can add this when you book.
What happens next
You’ll receive a confirmation email.
We’ll call you to book your ceremony within 10 working days.
If you cannot attend the ceremony, you’ll need to contact us. We’ll help you to arrange another ceremony.
