British Citizenship

Under the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 all applicants aged 18 years or over who have had their application for British citizenship granted must attend a citizenship ceremony. The ceremony will include taking an oath or affirmation to the Queen and a pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom.

The ceremonies are part of the Government's reforms designed to aid the integration of those who adopt the UK as their permanent home. These are being developed to help them learn English and gain an understanding of life in the UK.

The British Citizenship tests were launched across the UK on 1 November 2005. The 45-minute test called 'Life in the UK' - covering government, society and practical issues and costing £34 is the last of a series of changes to how people become British.

People seeking to become a British citizen will take the test at one of 90 centres across the country, before taking part in a formal citizenship ceremony. The 'Life in the UK' citizenship guide includes information on British history and society, its institutions and political system - but also practical issues key to integration such as employment, healthcare, education and using public services like libraries.

Click here for information about the 'Life in the UK' test