Fundamental British Values
The United Kingdom is a historic democracy founded on shared civic values that sustain a peaceful and tolerant society. Underpinning modern British life are four core principles:
- Democracy: Citizens determine their government through regular, free, and fair elections.
- The Rule of Law: Everyone is equal under the law; no person, police officer, or government minister is above the law.
- Individual Liberty: Citizens enjoy freedom of speech, movement, conscience, and peaceful assembly within the law.
- Mutual Respect and Tolerance: People of different faiths, beliefs, ethnicities, and orientations treat one another with dignity and equality.
Becoming a British Citizen
To apply for naturalisation as a British citizen, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the English language and life in the UK. At the formal citizenship ceremony, new citizens swear an Oath of Allegiance (or make an affirmation) to His Majesty King Charles III and pledge loyalty to the United Kingdom, promising to respect its rights and freedoms and uphold its democratic values.