Local authorities will now be able to conduct citizenship
ceremonies for individuals and households virtually.
As a result of coronavirus restrictions, group citizenship
ceremonies have been suspended. However, citizenship
ceremonies will now be allowed to take place via video
conferencing. The move will allow applicants to complete
their unique citizenship journey and become British
citizens.
The first virtual citizenship ceremony has been led by
Southwark Council, London, who will begin offering the
option from today.
To mark the momentous occasion Home Office Minister,
, attended
the UK’s first virtual citizenship ceremony. He said:
This ceremony is a moment in history as it is the first
to be undertaken virtually. It is good to see how the
process has been adapted by local Councils to allow
ceremonies to still take place during these difficult
times.
Citizenship ceremonies are important as they recognise
the commitment the new citizen has made to the UK, in
establishing their home here, contributing to the
economy, and having learned about life in the United
Kingdom, its culture, laws and history.
Those aged 18 or over who have successfully applied to
become a British citizen must attend a citizenship
ceremony. During the ceremony, individuals make an oath or
pledge; the event is administered in the local authority by
a registrar.
Leader of Southwark Council, Councillor OBE, said:
Southwark Council’s registration service helps about
3,000 people become British citizens every year. Our
cultural diversity is one of the many great things about
Southwark, and citizenship ceremonies help us to
encourage new citizens to play an active part in the
community.
The current epidemic means that in Southwark, like across
the country, we’re working hard to find new and
innovative ways to deliver services I’m delighted that we
can now offer virtual citizenship ceremonies too.
These measures are expected to be temporary. It is
anticipated that local authorities will resume providing
group ceremonies in official premises once it is safe to do
so and subject to national or local social distancing
guidance.
Departments have worked together closely to deliver an
efficient solution to the current restrictions. Due to
coronavirus, the period over time to book a citizenship
ceremony after receiving an invitation from the Home Office
has been extended from 3 months to 6 months, to allow for
greater flexibility.
More information on
the citizenship process can be found on GOV.UK.
