People wishing to apply for British citizenship, are now be able to access a service to have their applications checked at Bath and North East Somerset Register Office, based in the Guildhall, High Street, Bath.
The aim of the Nationality Checking Service, which is run in partnership with the Home Office, is to speed up the British citizenship application process by increasing the number of correctly completed applications submitted to the Home Office for consideration.
Applicants for British citizenship can visit the Register Office, by pre-arranged appointment, to have their applications checked by trained staff who are registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner. The service now operates on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and Fridays. We tend to get booked up at least two weeks in advance so it is wise to book ahead.
Please click on the highlighted link for the current Home Office Fees
Once checked, completed applications are sent by special delivery to the Home Office along with certified copies of the relevant documents. This enables applicants to retain their originals, including their passports, whilst their application is being processed. Any other method of submitting an application requires the applicant to send off their original documents to the Home Office.
We would ask clients to check very carefully what documents they need to support their application. The Home Office guide to completing the form indicates what will be required.
In addition we would ask all applicants who hold a UK driving Licence to please bring it with them (including the paper counterpart licence).
Please note: All applicants over the age of eighteen must attend the Nationality Checking Service appointment in person.
A fee is charged for this service (see below for details) and further information can be obtained by contacting the Register Office. All other application routes remain available to clients.
It is important to bear in mind that we are only able to provide a checking service and cannot give general immigration advice or act for clients after the point of application.
The Nationality Checking Service cannot guarantee the success of any application submitted. The final decision rests solely with the UKBA.
If you have any questions about completing your application form please call the Nationality Contact Centre on 0845 010 5200.
Application packs are available from the Home Office.
You can also download them from the below links:
Adult form AN
Child under 18 form MN1
Anyone requiring further information or who wishes to take advantage of this service should telephone 01225 477234 or email register_office@bathnes.gov.uk .