Last Updated on 10/02/2026
Applicants who achieve Freedom of the Company must then obtain the Freedom of the City of London before they can progress to the Livery. The Company will provide support and guidance throughout this process.
Applicants who become Freemen of the Company are generally expected to continue on to become Liverymen. This is by invitation and depends on available places within the Company’s charter limit. Only Liverymen are able to take part fully in the activities, privileges and responsibilities of the Company.
Freedom of the City of London
The Freedom of the City of London is granted by the Clerk to the Chamberlains Court at Guildhall. Although the original practical purposes of the Freedom have largely disappeared, it remains an important and distinctive tradition. Many people who have lived or worked in the City continue to regard admission as an honour. Before 1996 the Freedom was available only to British or Commonwealth citizens. It is now open to people of any nationality, whether through nomination or by being presented by a Livery Company. The City of London continues to preserve the Freedom as a living tradition. Freemen now represent a wide and diverse community.
Applying for the Freedom of the City
Most candidates first become Freemen of their Livery Company and then apply for the Freedom of the City. Applications made through Redemption are submitted to the Chamberlains Court and must be approved by the Court of Aldermen. A yearly schedule of closing dates is published, linked to meetings of the Court of Aldermen which usually take place seven times each year.
Current Fee
The Freedom Fine, which is the fee payable when applying for the Freedom of the City through a Livery Company, is currently £185.
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