1 Book your citizenship ceremony
The ceremony is the final step to becoming a British citizen. It is a way of formally welcoming you into your community, as well as a new British citizen.
The ceremony is a legal requirement if your application to become a British citizen has been accepted and you are over 18. Under-18s are welcome to attend if they wish.
You will receive a letter from the Home Office confirming that your application has been successful. You must then attend a ceremony within 3 months of receiving your invitation letter.
Group ceremonies
Group ceremonies are usually held once a month on a Wednesday, alternating between Chichester and Crawley.
There is no additional charge for this ceremony, as this is included in the fee you have already paid for your British Citizenship Application.
Individual ceremonies
If you are unable to attend any of the group ceremonies within the 11 weeks, we can arrange an individual ceremony for you and your family at a more convenient time.
These ceremonies require an additional payment, which is taken when the ceremony is booked.
You will need to contact us to arrange your ceremony.
COVID-19 pandemic update: We are now carrying out small, simple group citizenship ceremonies. Please contact us using the details below to arrange your ceremony.
- Complete our online citizenship ceremony form
- Email: citizenship@westsussex.gov.uk
- Phone: 01243 642122
- Citizenship Team
West Sussex Register Office
Southgate Avenue
Crawley
RH10 6HG
2 Ceremony fees
Group ceremonies
No charge (included in your citizenship application fee).
Individual ceremonies
Mid-week
- Single citizen - £115
- Family group - £150
Saturday
- Single citizen - £130
- Family group - £160
Individual ceremonies are subject to availability and are only available in Crawley.
Please complete our online citizenship ceremony form and a member of staff will contact you in due course.
3 During the ceremony
You must take your invitation from the Home Office with you when you go to your ceremony, as well as an additional form of photographic identification, such as your passport or driving licence.
You are allowed to take two guests with you.
You will be awarded UK citizenship after making an oath or affirmation of allegiance to the Queen, pledging to be a loyal subject and to observe the laws of this country. If you object to swearing an oath you may instead make a 'solemn affirmation'.
There will be an official photographer taking photographs of you receiving your Certificate of Naturalisation, which you will be able to purchase.
Refreshments will be served after the ceremony.