I'm also in the middle of applying for citizenship
this is the message I got after completing the application bit,
this will be found under ( 4. Declaration)

Two referees must fill in and sign declarations for each application you are making. Ensure you have read the nationality forms guidance on who can be a referee.

Declaration - Referee 1

Declaration - Referee 2

You can either download and print these declarations now, or they will also be available to download once you have paid for your application. If you are submitting more than one application, make sure you print off the required number of declarations.


I will give declarations from each referee for all applications being made, confirming they are qualified to act as a referee and that the details of the applicants given in the application are correct to the best of the referees' knowledge.

 

Near the end of the application, you should have been given this exact link: https://visas-immigration.service.gov.uk/documents/1st_Referee_Declaration_MN1.pdf

This is the form you need to download and print (twice) to give to each referee. They must sign it with your photo attached. It's the same form for each referee. Then you scan their signed copies and upload them.

But yes, the signed forms are required

 

I just looked at that form and it says to write the name of the applicant on the back of the photo and then glue it to the document. What's the point of that? How can the writing at the back be verified if stuck to the paper?!

 

Thank you so much! you have both put my mind at ease.

 

The procedure is a bit outdated because it's scanned and the writing on the back of the photo won't be visible. Just follow the instructions anyway