The National Archives holds many records relating to British nationality applications and citizenship registrations made prior to 1986. For records after 1986, contact UK Visas and Immigration.
As part of this collection, we hold office copies of certificates of British citizenship issued by the Home Office under the British Nationality Act 1948. We can supply two types of copies of individual certificates.
Types of copy
Standard copy
A photocopy or digital image produced for research purposes.
Certified copy
A photocopy which is authenticated by us as a copy of a public record and stamped with the seal of the Public Record Office. It can be used in evidence in legal proceedings in place of the original record. Please note that a certified copy from the National Archives is not confirmation of the authenticity of the information shown on it. It is not evidence of identity and should not be used as evidence of the event.
Our service
How does it work?
You provide us with details of the certificate you require using the form on this website or otherwise in writing.
We check our index and let you know if we have the certificate.
You can then order a copy of the record and pay for it through our website or visit our reading rooms to view and copy it yourself.
How much does it cost?
The initial search of our index is free.
Certified copies cost £25.50 plus postage and packing.
The fee for a standard copy is dependent upon the number of pages in the certificate (usually 1 or 2) and the format you require. Find out more about our fees.
How long does it take?
The initial index check will take up to 10 working days.
Orders for standard copies take up to 14 working days to dispatch and certified copies take up to 16 working days.
Related research guides
Naturalisation and citizenship: grants of British nationality
