Home Office Minister Kevin Foster attended the UK’s first virtual citizenship ceremony today
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, Kevin Foster, attended the UK’s first virtual citizenship ceremony. He said:
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 Peter John OBE, said:
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 overtime 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
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