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Glossary

Welcome to the glossary section, where you can find a dictionary of all terms that commonly appear on our website. These are simple explanations, rather than complete, legal definitions. You can browse by letter or alternatively go to the advanced search anywhere on the site and search by Glossary.

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  1. O

    1. Oath of allegiance

      An official oath sworn by those taking British citizenship, promising to faithfully support the British monarch. An affirmation of allegiance is a similar declaration.

    2. Office for Standards in Education

      The official body for inspecting schools.

    3. Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC)

      OISC is the body responsible for ensuring that all immigration advisers meet the requirements of good practice.

    4. Ofsted

      The Office for Standards in Education. The official body for inspecting schools.

    5. Ordinarily resident

      This means you can prove you have a close link with a country that shows that country is where you normally live. Proof of ordinary residence would be the length of time you have spent in the country, the continuity and general nature of the residence.

    6. Ordinary residence

      Proven close link with a country that shows that country is where you are settled and normally live. Proof of ordinary residence would be the length of time you have spent in the country, the continuity and general nature of the residence, which must be voluntary and legal.

    7. Original certificate of award

      The original certificate (not a photocopy) from your school, college or university that confirms the qualification you gained there.

    8. Original letter from the institution of study

      An original letter (not a photocopy) from the school, college or university where you studied.

    9. Otherwise than by descent

      British citizenship gained in your own right (not by descent through your parents or grandparents). This type of citizenship can be passed on to your own children. (See also Descent.)

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