Nationality checking service

In conjunction with the Home Office and Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) we offer a nationality checking service to assist people who want to apply for British Citizenship.

The service will help reduce delays in applying for British Citizenship. You do not have to live or work in Rochdale area to apply. Applications are welcome even if you live in other areas such as Greater Manchester, Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire .

As part of the service we will:

  • Ensure that your application form is completed correctly
  • Check, photocopy and certify your passport and other original documents, so you can keep the original 
  • Make sure that you have enclosed the right payment
  • Send your application safely and quickly to the Home Office by guaranteed next day delivery

We are registered with the Office of the Immigration Service Commissioner (OISC) and will give you a fast, efficient, and friendly service.

Fees

There is a non-refundable fee for using the service. This fee is collected when we book your appointment. The fee does not include the Home Office fee.

Type of application

Fee

Adult who submits a single application (one fee)

£50

Husband and wife living together who apply at the same time (one fee)

£60

Husband and wife (and up to 2 children)

£70

Additional children on parents application

£20 per child

One or more children under the age of 18 who apply separately from their parents

£20 per child

How do I book my appointment?

The Nationality Checking Service operates on an appointment only basis. To make your appointment please contact us:

  • By phone: 01706 924382 (24hr answer phone facility)
  • In person: Register Office, Town Hall, Rochdale, OL16 1AB
  • By email: ncs@rochdale.gov.uk (with your full details and we will call you back)

Appointments are available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). The appointments are held in the Register office, Town Hall, Rochdale. We aim to see you within 5 working days.

Your appointment

When you book an appointment we will give you more information on what you must bring with you. But in summary:

  • You must make your application in person
  • You must bring the following documents with you:
    • Completed citizenship application form
    • Original copy of your successful ‘Life in the UK’ test certificate. (Naturalisation only) or English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) course with a citizenship syllabus
    • All the necessary documents as explained in the application form guideline notes
  • The citizenship application fee (payable to the Home Office)
  • The checking service fee (this must be paid separately from the citizenship application fee)

You can get an application form and notes from the UKBA website

Will the Council give me advice about Nationality?

We will not be able to provide advice on nationality matters. If you require advice you can contact the Home Office on: 0845 010 5200.

The Home Office website also offers nationality advice.

How do I know Rochdale Council is competent to offer the Nationality Checking Service?

Our advisers are registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC), an independent body established by Parliament, which regulates organisations offering services of this kind.

In providing the Nationality Checking Service, staff have been fully trained by Home Office Nationality experts and provided with a set of desk instructions which set out the precise extent of their duties.

If you need advice or services which are outside our remit, we will refer you to the Home Office and record the fact.