Freeman of the Company

Freedom of the Company

Progression through the Livery Companies remains much the same as it has been for centuries and the Worshipful Company of International Bankers is carrying on those traditions. The first step is to become a Freeman of the Company. All new members of the Company are expected to become Freemen in order to complete the joining process. To do this, when an applicant is approved for membership they must pay a Freedom Fine of £200 (reduced to £100 for younger members) in order to redeem (i.e. purchase) their Freedom and make a Declaration in front of the Master and Court.

The Declaration is read aloud from a printed sheet and covers such matters as promising to keep the laws and rules, and helping and furthering the good government of the Company. Following the Declaration each Freeman is given a certificate as proof of admission. This certificate can then be used as proof of admission as a Freeman of the Company and can be taken to the Chamberlain's Court of the Corporation of London when an application is made for Freedom of the City - the next step in progression through the Company. The Clerk advertises dates of Freedom Ceremonies which usually take place after Court meetings.

Freemen may advance to become Liverymen after obtaining the Freedom of the City of London with the Court of Assistants' approval, provided they have been members of the WCIB for at least two years. Only Liverymen are eligible to apply for election to the WCIB Court, to chair WCIB standing committees and to attend our annual Liverymen's lunch. Liverymen vote in the annual election of the Lord Mayor of London, the Sheriffs and various other City civic offices, including the Ale Conners and Bridge Masters.

Freedom of the City of London

Freemen of the Company may apply for Freedom of the City of London as follows:

Email the Clerk of the Chamberlain's Office in Guildhall on court.assistant@cityoflondon.gov.uk and advise them that you are a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of International Bankers and wish to make an appointment to apply for the Freedom. The Chamberlain's Court is open Mon-Fri from 10.00 to 15.30.

Freedom of the City involves taking an Oath of Loyalty and the Roll is then signed, the right hand of friendship is extended and the certificate of freedom is received.

Click here for further information: Freedom of the City of London