Nationality Checking Service

Southwark registration service is pleased to offer the nationality checking service (NCS) which is available by appointment only.   

What is the nationality checking service?

The NCS is a partnership between the Home Office's immigration and nationality directorate and some local authorities in England and Wales.

If you are applying for British citizenship you can come to us in person and for a small fee we will

• check that your application has been completed correctly
• ensure that all the required documents have been submitted 
• check and provide certified copies of your supporting documents 
• send your application(s) to the Home Office by special delivery post.

Is the council qualified to offer a nationality checking service?

The NCS team has been trained and is registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) to carry out this service.

Why should I use this service?

• The NCS is not a fast-track application service. However, applications which have been completed properly with the required documents tend to be dealt with more quickly
  
• Your documents are photocopied and certified, which means that you will be able to retain your original documents, like your passport, birth certificate, etc.

How do I use the service? 

For more information and to book an appointment contact 

Nationality checking service
Tel: 020 7525 7651
ncs@southwark.gov.uk  
Southwark Register Office
34 Peckham Road
Camberwell
London SE5 8QA
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm 

Do I have to use the Southwark Council's nationality checking service?

No. You may still choose to forward your application directly to the Home Office yourself or to use a solicitor or other agent if you wish.

How do I get a citizenship application form?

These can be obtained from

• The reception at the Southwark register office
  
• The Home Office IND
  Tel: 0845 010 5200
  Managed Migration
  Immigration and Nationality Directorate
  PO Box 306
  Liverpool L2 0QN
  
• Or download from the Home Office website
  

What is the new 'life in the UK' test?

If you are applying for naturalisation you will need to prove knowledge of life in the UK, your English language ability and provide documented evidence of this with your application.

Does the council give advice about nationality?

The council will not be able to provide advice on nationality matters. For this kind of information please contact the Home Office or go the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) website to find a local adviser.

Do I have to pay for the checking service?

The council will charge you a fee of

• £45 per individual application
• £70 for a couple living at the same address
• £80 for a couple living at the same address with one or two minors
• £80 for an individual with one or two minors
• £20 for any additional minors

All fees include VAT.

Please note that these fees are in addition to the normal fee payable to the Home Office for processing an application for nationality. Home Office fees may be paid by postal order or cheque (made out to the Home Office) or by credit card.

Nationality checking service fees may be paid by postal order or cheque, (made out to the London Borough of Southwark) or by credit card or cash. This fee is an administration cost which the council charge for offering an effective service.

What do I do if I want to complain about the service I receive?

You may direct your complaint through the Southwark Council complaints procedure or to the
Office of Immigration Services Commissioner.  

Office of Immigration Services Commissioner
Complaints Team
5th Floor
Counting House
53 Tooley Street
London SE1 2QN

Southwark Council
Complaints Manager
Librata
PO Box 782
Bromley
BR1 3YE

Details are also available on the OISC website.