Citizenship Ceremony: Taking the Oath

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Citizenship Ceremony: Taking the Oath
The Citizenship Ceremony is the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen. It is a formal event where you take the Oath of Citizenship and officially become a citizen of Canada.
The Oath of Citizenship
"I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, King of Canada, His Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada, including the Constitution, which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen."
Ceremony Format
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | In-person at a designated venue; also available virtually |
| Duration | About 1 hour |
| Presided by | A citizenship judge or IRCC official |
| Group | Usually 30-100 new citizens |
| Family | Guests are welcome to attend |
| Dress code | Business casual or traditional attire |
What Happens at the Ceremony
| Order | Event |
|---|---|
| 1 | Welcome remarks and land acknowledgement |
| 2 | Introduction by the presiding official |
| 3 | Taking the Oath of Citizenship |
| 4 | Singing "O Canada" |
| 5 | Receiving your citizenship certificate |
| 6 | Congratulations and photos |
What to Bring
| Item | Required |
|---|---|
| PR card | ✅ Yes |
| Government-issued photo ID | ✅ Yes |
| Record of Landing (IMM 1000) | If applicable |
| Ceremony notice | ✅ Yes (the letter from IRCC) |
After the Ceremony
| Action | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship certificate | Received at the ceremony |
| Apply for passport | Can apply for a Canadian passport immediately |
| Vote | Can register and vote in elections |
| Update records | Update government records (CRA, provincial health, etc.) |
| Travel | Can travel on a Canadian passport |
| Sponsor family | Can sponsor family members as a citizen |
Tips
- Arrive early — ceremonies start on time
- Bring your family — it's a celebration!
- Dress appropriately — many people wear traditional cultural dress
- Take photos — it's a once-in-a-lifetime event
- Apply for your passport soon — processing takes several weeks
- Register to vote — exercise your new democratic right
Source: IRCC — Citizenship Ceremony
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