Child Referees

[Imm2021]

Hi,

Just a couple of questions.

The application for citizenship (children under 18), asks for Two referees. The online form lists some requirements for each referee, but it does not mention that anything about one of the referees having to know the child as a teacher or tutor. I came across some guidance however, that states something along the lines that one of the referees must know the child as a tutor. I just wanted to see if you can clarify that.

The other question is this: the online form also asks for a "parents consent letter." Is there a template or form for this letter? and if so, where can it be downloaded from? (Same with the referees form).

Thank you.

[contorted_svy]

Yes, one of the referees should know the child in a professional capacity (e.g. teacher). However, this is notoriously difficult to obtain. Ask your child's school and if they decline use a family friend in a recognised profession.

For the consent letter, you can use this template

The consent of both parents is required for applications made under section 3(5) and 4D and is
expected for all other applications.
7.1 Father’s consent:
I (name of father) consent
to this application for the registration of
(name of child) as a British citizen.
signed:
7.2 Mother’s consent:
I (name of mother) consent
to this application for the registration of
(name of child) as a British citizen.
signed:
7.3 If only one parent has signed, say why the other parent has not signed and provide
supporting documents (see ‘Consent to the application’ section of the Nationality forms guide https://www.gov.uk/government/publicati ... orms-guide)


The referee form is this one https://visas-immigration.service.gov.u ... on_MN1.pdf

[Imm2021]

Hi,

Thanks a lot for your reply. Really useful

One more question: When is the application officially considered "submitted." Is it when it is submitted online? Or when the biometrics are captured? (I imagine it is the same process as for the IRL where the application was completed, and an appointment had to be done for the biometrics). I ask because my child is turning 18 this year, and I'd obviously try to submit ahead of time.

Thank you!

Best regards.

[alterhase58]

It’s the date of submission.
As child is under 18 it will be considered as such. The only change will be that child at 18 is required to attend the ceremony and UKVI will request the ceremony fee separately.

[Imm2021]

Brilliant,

Thank you very much.

So just to be perfectly clear, if the child turns 18 after the application is submitted online, but before the biometrics are checked, it would still be ok right?

Also, on your reply you mentioned that if the child was over 18, the only difference is that they would have to pay for the ceremony. Isn't it the case that if the child is over 18 they would also have to take the "life in the UK" test as well?

Thank you!

Kind regards

[alterhase58]

Brilliant,

Thank you very much.

So just to be perfectly clear, if the child turns 18 after the application is submitted online, but before the biometrics are checked, it would still be ok right? Yes, the key date is the application date. The biometrics are just a step in the process, it's not a statutory procedure.

Also, on your reply you mentioned that if the child was over 18, the only difference is that they would have to pay for the ceremony. Isn't it the case that if the child is over 18 they would also have to take the "life in the UK" test as well? No, child applies as child and is treated as such,no tests, etc. Registration doesn't require tests etc. However, at 18 "child" can make contracts, with the King in this case, can sign contracts, cheques, etc.

Thank you!

Kind regards

[Imm2021]

Hi.

Ah! I see. Got it.

Thank you so much!! Your replies are really useful

Appreciate it

Best regards,



G

[Imm2021]

Hi,

One more question if I may. I asked one of my child's teachers, and told him what was some of the info we'd need, but he said that he couldn't, because his passport was expired. Would you happen to know if that is actually necessary? Could he still provide the reference, or is it necessary that the person has a valid passport?

Thank you!

[contorted_svy]

It would be best if the teacher had a valid passport.

[Imm2021]

Ok. got it.

Thank you.

[Imm2021]

Hi,

Just a few more questions with regard to this,

1. Does it matter if the forms are printed double-sided or not?

2. I'm also kind of confused as to who's the person that's supposed to write on the back of the photos? Is it the applicant, or the referee?

3. And, are the forms for the referees for adults and children the same? And are the forms for the 1st and 2nd referee the same as well? (In other words, is there just one referee form for all referees?)

4. And lastly, while looking for information, I came across a page that mentions digital referees. Eventually I realized it was a page from the passport office. So, just to make sure, for the purpose of naturalization, we should use printed forms for the referees right?

Thank you!!

[CR001]

1. Does it matter if the forms are printed double-sided or not?

No, but remember to scan appropriately so you don't miss out the back of each page.

2. I'm also kind of confused as to who's the person that's supposed to write on the back of the photos? Is it the applicant, or the referee?

You don't need to write on the back of the photo. This is a remnant of the paper application days.

3. And, are the forms for the referees for adults and children the same? And are the forms for the 1st and 2nd referee the same as well? (In other words, is there just one referee form for all referees?)

The forms are the same.

4. And lastly, while looking for information, I came across a page that mentions digital referees. Eventually I realized it was a page from the passport office. So, just to make sure, for the purpose of naturalization, we should use printed forms for the referees right?

Correct.