Travel before getting a British passport?

[jabsal]

Hi

Some facts:

I am due to have my British citizenship ceremony on Monday, 16 Feb.
I understand the first adult British passport can take up to 6 weeks.

I need to travel for work, twice within the next 4 weeks.

I understand that technically, India grants a 3 month grace period from the date of naturalisation.

What I am unclear on is

1 - can I travel overseas using the current visas on the Indian passport before I get my British Passport?

If yes, will there be no issues on my return to the UK?

2 - does the fine that India levies per trip (when you apply for the PIO/ OCI card), start from the date of naturalisation or after the 3 month grace period?

[milan69]

1. Yes you can. I suggest you take your certificate with you.

[taurus]

Hi Milan69

Can you please advise how the return is then stamped?

[milan69]

The entry stamp is stamped in you passport, just like every time when you have entered UK.

[secret.simon]

2. You would not be fined for any travel on the Indian passport within the three months grace period. The purpose of the grace period is to give you time to get a new passport.

You have three years to surrender the Indian passport.

Re 1., remember to carry your BRP along with your passport. Although the BRP becomes redundant with your naturalisation, it is best to have it along with you.

[jabsal]

Thank you milan69 and secret.simon

From all the information gathered on the site, I am now more confident of travelling with the Indian passport.

I also learn that on average, it seems to take 3 weeks instead of 6 weeks to get the new passport which is not great but comforting to a certain degree.

I understand the final decision is up to me but would you guys advise travel or wait for the British passport?

I will, of course, have to check if travel can be pushed for 3 weeks which I suspect is highly unlikely but nevertheless, good to know what the real options are and am very thankful for the advice extended here.

[milan69]

I have traveled on two occasions and had no problem. I had a certificate with me but was not asked to show it.

[jabsal]

MilaN69 -Have you since applied for a PIO / OCI card ?

[milan69]

No.
I hold passport of a European country.

[jabsal]

Thank you milan69

Secret.Simon - would you have any more information to share?