Embarking on the final step towards becoming a naturalized Canadian citizen involves attending a citizenship ceremony, which can vary in requirements based on the format.

Citizenship ceremonies are typically conducted either virtually through a video conference or in person in a designated ceremony room at a local Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) office.

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Citizenship ceremonies, regardless of format, encompass three fundamental elements: taking the oath of citizenship, singing the national anthem, and signing the Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship (OAC) form.

Upon completion of the ceremony, you will be presented with a certificate that serves as official documentation of your Canadian citizenship.

About the Oath of Citizenship

Prior to the ceremony, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the oath of citizenship.

Individuals aged 14 and above are required to take the oath of citizenship.

During the ceremony, the oath of citizenship will be administered in both English and French, allowing you to choose the language in which you feel most comfortable reciting it.

If attending virtually, you are expected to remain seated while reciting the oath; if attending in person, standing is customary.

If assistance is needed to take the oath, accommodations can be requested, or a waiver may be applicable based on eligibility criteria.

The Citizenship Ceremony Invitation

Familiarizing yourself with the ceremony format will help you prepare adequately and know what to anticipate.

The immigration department will extend an invitation for you to attend a citizenship ceremony, outlining the ceremony format (virtual or in-person).

In addition to the format details, the invitation will include:

• The scheduled date, arrival time, and anticipated duration of the ceremony;
• The physical venue for in-person ceremonies or a video conference link for virtual ceremonies;
• The primary language of the ceremony (English, French, or bilingual).