Citizenship Ceremonies

In 2004 the Government introduced a requirement that all those aged 18 years or over, who are accepted for naturalisation and registration as British citizens, must take a citizenship oath and pledge at a formal Citizenship Ceremony. The Ceremony enables new citizens to be welcomed and celebrated as part of the local community. They are invited to become active citizens and to bring their talents and experiences to help encourage community cohesion. These ceremonies have become successful and popular throughout the United Kingdom. In Suffolk, Citizenship Ceremonies are administered by Suffolk County Council’s Registration Service.

The Lord Lieutenant is invited to preside at Citizenship Ceremonies, held regularly across the County. This duty is often shared with Deputy Lieutenants. The High Sheriff and Civic Heads (Chairman of the County Council or the Mayor or Chair of District and Borough councils) often take part too.

A county Registrar leads each ceremony, and the dignitary presiding makes a ‘welcome speech’ which usually covers the history, characteristics and culture of the county as well the diverse nature of local communities. Each new citizen is then invited to take an oath or affirmation of allegiance, and make a pledge of loyalty to The King, after which each is presented formally with a certificate of citizenship. Informal celebrations then follow and new and lasting friendships are often made.