You've passed the test. Your application has been approved. Now comes the final step: the citizenship ceremony. It's the moment where you legally become a Canadian citizen—and it happens faster than you expect. Most ceremonies last 60-90 minutes from arrival to certificate. Here's exactly what happens, hour by hour.
Before the Ceremony: What to Bring
Ceremony Day Checklist
Optional but recommended:
- Camera or smartphone (photos are allowed and encouraged during the ceremony)
- Family members and friends (most ceremonies welcome guests—check your invitation letter)
- A handkerchief or tissues (many people tear up during the oath; it's completely normal)
What to Wear
There's no formal dress code, but the ceremony is a significant civic event. Think "smart casual" to "business casual." You'll see a range at any ceremony: some people wear suits and traditional cultural dress, others wear clean jeans and a button-down shirt. What matters is that you feel dignified and comfortable.
Many new citizens choose to wear traditional clothing from their country of origin as a celebration of the diversity that Canada embraces. This is welcomed and appreciated.
Hour-by-Hour: What Happens
Arrival (30-60 minutes before start)
Arrive at the ceremony venue at least 30 minutes early, as indicated on your invitation. You'll check in at a registration desk where officials verify your identity and documents. You'll be asked to surrender your PR card—you won't need it anymore because you'll be a citizen. You'll receive a program sheet and be directed to your seat.
The venue varies: some ceremonies are held in IRCC offices, others in courtrooms, community centres, museums, or even outdoor spaces during Canada Day celebrations. Virtual ceremonies became common during COVID and remain available.
The Ceremony Begins
Welcome and introductions (5-10 minutes): A citizenship judge or presiding officer welcomes everyone, introduces any special guests (sometimes local dignitaries, MPs, or community leaders attend), and explains the ceremony's significance.
Canadian national anthem (2 minutes): "O Canada" is played or sung, often in both English and French. You may be invited to sing along—lyrics are usually provided.
The Oath of Citizenship (5 minutes)
This is the central moment. Everyone taking the oath stands. The presiding officer reads the oath, one line at a time, and you repeat each line. The oath can be taken in English, French, or both.
The current 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."
Note: If you prefer not to swear a religious oath, you can "affirm" instead. Both are legally identical. The presiding officer will offer both options before the oath is administered.
The oath was updated in 2021 to include recognition of Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This change reflects the ongoing commitment to reconciliation.
Signing the Oath Form (5-10 minutes)
After taking the oath verbally, you sign a printed oath form. This document is your official record of having taken the oath. Keep a copy for your records—the original goes to IRCC.
Receiving Your Citizenship Certificate (10-20 minutes)
Each new citizen is called individually (or in small groups) to receive their citizenship certificate. The presiding officer shakes your hand and congratulates you. This is when the photos happen—the officer is usually happy to pause for a picture.
Your citizenship certificate is an important document. Guard it carefully. It's your proof of Canadian citizenship. While you can order a replacement if it's lost ($75), the process takes months.
Closing Remarks (5-10 minutes)
The presiding officer offers closing remarks, often reflecting on the diversity of the new citizens in the room and the meaning of Canadian identity. Some ceremonies include a brief reception with refreshments afterward.
After the Ceremony
Immediately
- Make a photocopy of your citizenship certificate and store the original in a safe place
- You can now apply for a Canadian passport (applications are available online or at passport offices)
- Register to vote with Elections Canada (you may receive voter registration information at the ceremony)
Within the First Week
- Apply for your Canadian passport if you plan to travel
- Update your status with your bank, employer, and any government agencies
- If you have dual citizenship, research any implications for your other citizenship(s)
Within the First Month
- Register to vote if you haven't already
- Update your immigration-related records with CRA
- Celebrate! You've earned this.
Virtual Ceremonies
Since COVID, IRCC has offered virtual citizenship ceremonies via videoconference. These follow the same format as in-person ceremonies but are conducted online. You take the oath on camera, sign the form electronically, and receive your certificate by mail.
Virtual ceremonies are often scheduled faster than in-person ones. If speed is a priority, you may want to accept a virtual ceremony rather than waiting for an in-person date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my family attend?
Most in-person ceremonies welcome family and friends as guests. Check your ceremony notice for any guest limitations (some venues have capacity restrictions). For virtual ceremonies, family can be in the room with you.
Can I bring my children?
Yes. If your children are also becoming citizens, they'll take the oath alongside you (children over 14 take the oath; those under 14 attend but are not required to recite it).
What if I miss my ceremony date?
Contact IRCC immediately to reschedule. Missing your ceremony without notice may delay your citizenship. Valid reasons for rescheduling include illness, travel emergencies, and work conflicts.
What if I disagree with swearing allegiance to the King?
You can "affirm" instead of "swear," which removes the religious connotation. However, the oath of allegiance to the Crown is a legal requirement of Canadian citizenship. Courts have consistently upheld this requirement. If you have concerns, consider that the oath represents allegiance to the Canadian constitutional framework (of which the Crown is a part), not personal loyalty to any individual.
Your Next Step
If your ceremony is coming up, review the checklist above and prepare your documents. If you're still in the test preparation phase, our 3-week study plan will get you ready. The ceremony is the reward for all your hard work—enjoy every moment of it.