Citizenship ceremonies

We hold citizenship ceremonies for Derby residents who have been successful in applying for British citizenship.

British citizenship ceremonies – a short history

The final step on the journey to becoming a British citizen, for most people, is to swear or affirm an Oath of Allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen at a citizenship ceremony.

In 2003, Her Majesty’s Government introduced the requirement that all persons over 18 years of age, applying for naturalisation or registration as a British citizen, must take a citizenship oath and pledge at a citizenship ceremony.

The ceremonies are a time for celebration and provide an opportunity to officially welcome new citizens.

Applying for British citizenship

If you wish to apply for citizenship, you will have to know about life in the UK and be able to speak English. Further details are available on the UK Visas & Immigration website.

How to apply for a citizenship ceremony in Derby

Upon receiving a letter of approval from the Home Office, contact us by emailing customerservices@derby.gov.uk or telephoning 01332 641680.

You are required to attend a ceremony within three months of the approval being granted (currently six months following the COVID-19 pandemic). We can make an appointment for you to attend a ceremony in Derby. Ceremonies are held every four weeks in the Council Chamber, Council House, Corporation Street, Derby, DE1 2FS. The ceremony is hosted by the Superintendent Registrar and the Mayor of the City of Derby. Refreshments will be provided after each ceremony.

Our citizenship ceremony

We ask you to arrive no more than ten minutes before the citizenship ceremony begins. You will be welcomed and booked in by our citizenship ceremony team. After you have been booked in and your documentation is checked, you will be escorted to the Council Chamber where the ceremony will take place. Applicants are required to swear or affirm an oath of allegiance to the Queen and make a pledge of loyalty to the United Kingdom. The ceremony takes about 25 minutes after which you will be presented with your certificate of naturalisation.

How much does it cost?

Communal ceremonies are free of charge.

Private citizenship ceremonies for individuals or family groups are available at £175 per ceremony.

Further information

If you have a question or comment regarding citizenship ceremonies, contact us using our online form.