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Nationality Checking Service

Factsheet


Suffolk County Council is registered with the Office of the Immigration Services
Commissioner as a member of the Nationality Checking Service.

How can I apply for British Citizenship?

You will need to complete an application form. You can download a form from the
Home Office UK Border Agency Website. Alternatively you can telephone the Home
Office on 0845 010 5200.

When you have completed the form and gathered together the appropriate documents
you can arrange for an appointment with a Nationality Checking Officer.

What other documents will I need to produce?

This will depend on your individual circumstances. Full details are shown on the
application form. All documents must be originals, photocopies are not acceptable.

How much will it cost?

From 1 January 2014

Type of application
Total fee payable
by customers
VAT
Taxable
amount
Adult 65.00 10.83 54.17
Child (up to age of 18) 35.00 5.83 29.17

These fees are payable to Suffolk County Council at the time of making the
appointment and are non-refundable in the event of cancellation. Payment can be
made in person by cash, cheque or debit/credit card.

A 30 administration fee will apply for changes to appointment dates/times. The fee
represents the charge for the Nationality Checking aspect of the application only.
Additional fees and disbursements will apply which are payable to The Home Office.

Do I need to use the Nationality Checking Service?

No, you can send your application direct to The Home Office if you prefer. However,
there are advantages to using the checking service:-

Your documents will be checked and certified copies will be sent with your
application to The Home Office. This means you will not need to send the
originals with your application. Your documents will not be lost in transit and
you will retain your passport whilst your application is being processed at The
Home Office.
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Your application will be checked for accuracy before it is forwarded to The Home
Office.

How can I make an appointment?

To make an appointment please call our booking line 01473 292777 between 9am
and 4pm Monday - Friday.

What will happen at the appointment?

Your documents will be checked, copied and certified by the Nationality Checking
Officer. They will also check your application form before sending the application,
together with the fee direct to The Home Office by secure mail.

Do I need to live in Ipswich or Suffolk to use this service?

No, the service is available to anyone applying for British Citizenship.