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Damaged Naturalisation Certificate
Posted: Wed Jun 05, 2013 7:48 pm
by rvs
I sent my naturalisation certificate with passport application using check and send service. On receipt of the certificate back, it is torn
I feel that this is because it was not handled properly by the courier. Is there any way to obtain a new certificate without having to pay £94 for a duplicate certificate?
Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Posted: Wed Jun 05, 2013 7:55 pm
by ban.s
I would send a formal complaint to IPS (HMPO) with a copy of the damaged certificate in the first instance.
Posted: Wed Jun 05, 2013 8:01 pm
by rvs
Thanks ban.s
Would it help if I call them up? Do you have a contact number for IPS?
Posted: Wed Jun 05, 2013 8:08 pm
by ban.s
Posted: Wed Jun 05, 2013 9:47 pm
by Plum70
Definitely complain and request compensation to cover the cost of obtaining a new certificate.
I also experienced something similar. When the IPS returned my passports and naturalisation certificate by their so-called "secure" courier they came in a basic white envelope with a gum seal that looked like it had already been disturbed. My certificate was also creased and crumpled though not torn.
The IPS sure sets a good example of how to treat valuable documents.
Posted: Wed Jun 05, 2013 10:15 pm
by rvs
Thanks Guru. Did you complaint? Do they normally give compensation to cover costs etc?
Posted: Thu Jun 06, 2013 3:34 pm
by Plum70
rvs wrote:Thanks Guru. Did you complaint? Do they normally give compensation to cover costs etc?
No, I didn't, as mine wasn't irreparably damaged.
Yes, according to this
IPS procedural doc. (under the heading - UK Documents) the IPS has an arrangement with the UKBA to issue replacement naturalisation certificates free of charge. This happens once it has been established that the IPS is liable.
How were your supporting documents returned?
Posted: Thu Jun 06, 2013 5:20 pm
by rvs
They were returned via the Post Office check and send service i.e. secure post.
Posted: Thu Jun 06, 2013 7:24 pm
by Plum70
rvs wrote:They were returned via the Post Office check and send service i.e. secure post.
Do you mean the DX secure delivery company that the IPS uses?
Did you tick the option on your passport application form for your docs to be returned by secure delivery (at an additional £3 fee)? If so, then they were returned by the IPS preferred courier company - DX secure - and not the PO.
Follow the instructions in the link above to start the process of obtaining a replacement certificate.