The nationality checking team can help make sure your application for British Citizenship isn't delayed. We also make sure that you get to keep important documents (such as your passport and marriage certificates) rather then sending them to the UK Border Agency.
How we help
If you decide to use the service, a trained adviser will:
- check your application forms have been completed correctly
- make sure all required documents are attached
- check that the correct fee has been submitted
- photocopy valuable documents such as passports and marriage certificates
- photocopy 'Life in the UK' certificates or other evidence of competence in the English language
- certify the copies and return the originals to you
- ensure your completed application is sent to the UK Border Agency by special delivery.
How much it costs
Check the latest fee.
On booking an appointment the full fee is required.
Should you need to cancel or amend your appointment for any reason, please give at least two working days' notice, otherwise we will be unable to refund your checking service fee.
All fees are for the nationality checking service only and do not include fees the Home Office may charge for processing your application.
The nationality checking service fee is not refundable should your application to the Home Office be unsuccessful (unless you have a valid complaint against the service). Use of this service does not mean that applications to the Home Office will be fast-tracked.
Please read the nationality checking service booklet (pdf format, 175 KB) before your appointment.
Essential information
If you have any driving offences, please bring the paper part of your driving licence as well as the photo card.
Residential qualifying period
The residential qualifying period will be worked out from the day we receive your application.
Most unsuccessful applications fail because the applicant was not present in the United Kingdom at the beginning of the residential qualifying period. You must make sure you meet this requirement before you make your application. For example, if we received your application on 25 February 2012, you would have to show that you were in the United Kingdom on 26 February 2007*.
(*if you are applying as the spouse of a British Citizen, the date would be 26 February 2009)
If you do not meet the residential requirements or were out of the UK at the start of the residential qualifying period, please call 0845 129 5900 to change the date of your NCS appointment with at least two working days' notice before the appointment date, or a charge will apply.
How to book an appointment
Contact the Registration Service. When you ring to make an appointment you will be asked questions to confirm you meet the basic requirements for the nationality checking service.
Where the the service is offered
The nationality checking service is offered at three registration offices – Oxford, Abingdon, and Banbury.
More about the service
Oxfordshire's nationality checking service is a partnership between the UK Border Agency and Oxfordshire County Council. The team has received training from immigration specialists and is committed to providing a first-rate service.
Application forms
Get the British nationality application form and guidance in one of the following ways:
- Download a copy from the UK Border Agency website
- Contact the Home Office direct on 0845 010 5200
- Contact the Nationality Enquiries Team, Customer Services Directorate, PO BOX 36, Liverpool, L2 0QN.
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