What to expect at the ceremony
Welcome
You will be welcomed to the group ceremony by a civic dignitary from the London Borough of Newham. He or she will give you a history of the borough. The Mayor, local councillors and local MPs usually also attend ceremonies.
Oath of Allegiance and the Pledge
As a new British citizen, you will be required to swear or affirm an oath of allegiance to the Queen and to make a public pledge to observe the laws of the country and uphold its democratic values.
If you are choosing to swear an oath of allegiance to the Queen and pledging to observe the laws of the country, bring your own holy book if desired
Oath of Allegiance
“I swear by Almighty God/ I do solemnly, sincerely and truly, declare and affirm, that on becoming a British citizen, I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and her heirs and successors according to law.”
Pledge
“I will give my loyalty to the United Kingdom and respect its rights and freedoms. I will uphold its democratic values. I will observe its laws faithfully and fulfil my duties and obligations as a British citizen.”
Nationality Certificate
When you have made your promises, the civic dignitary will present you with your Nationality Certificate.
At the end of the ceremony, we play the National Anthem (some new citizens choose to sing along).
