Guide
How to find your relative's naturalisation date for free
The date your Polish relative became British is often the single most important fact in a Polish citizenship case. For anyone naturalised up to 1980 you can usually find it online, for free.
Step 1: search The London Gazette
For many years the Home Office published lists of people granted certificates of naturalisation in The London Gazette, the UK's official public record. The National Archives covers the Gazette for 1844 to 1980.
- Go to thegazette.co.uk and use the search.
- Search for his surname, then add his first name. Try other spellings too: Polish names were often written differently in English, and some men anglicised their names.
- Narrow the dates to the years after he arrived, usually from 1947.
- Open the notice. Each entry usually gives his name, country of origin, address and the date the certificate was granted.
Write down: the date of the certificate, the issue number and page of the Gazette. You will need them later.
Step 2: get the official record
Most naturalisation records up to 1986 are held by The National Archives. Their guide explains how to search their catalogue by name and how to get a copy of the certificate, which is the official proof for an application.
What if you can't find him?
- He may never have become British. That is often good news for a citizenship case.
- He may be listed under a different spelling or an anglicised name.
- He may have become a citizen of another country, for example after emigrating again.
What the date tells you
A date after 19 January 1951 usually means he kept his Polish citizenship. An earlier date needs a closer look. Read the 1951 rule.
Want someone to check your family for you? Email the basics about your Polish relative and I'll reply within 2 working days, free.
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This guide is general information, not legal advice. Polish Roots Passport is an independent service, not connected to the Polish government or the UK Home Office.