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What to Expect at Your Canadian Citizenship Ceremony

September 5, 2026 · Canadian Citizenship Prep

The Final Step

The citizenship ceremony is the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen. After passing your test and completing all other requirements, you will receive an invitation to attend a ceremony.

Before the Ceremony

  • You will receive a Notice to Appear (NTA) with the date, time, and location
  • Bring your PR card, the NTA letter, and two pieces of photo ID
  • Arrive 30 minutes early
  • Dress respectfully (business casual is typical)

    • During the Ceremony

    1. Check-in

    You will check in, have your identity verified, and receive your ceremony materials.

    2. The Ceremony

    A citizenship judge or presiding official leads the ceremony. They may share remarks about the meaning of Canadian citizenship and what it means to be Canadian.

    3. The Oath of Citizenship

    This is the most important part. You will stand, raise your right hand, and recite 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 Metis peoples, and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen.

    4. Receiving Your Certificate

    After taking the oath, you will receive your Certificate of Canadian Citizenship. This is an important document. Keep it safe.

    5. Singing O Canada

    The ceremony typically concludes with singing the national anthem.

    After the Ceremony

  • You are now a Canadian citizen
  • You can apply for a Canadian passport
  • Update your status with relevant government agencies
  • Register to vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections
  • Celebrate!

    • Virtual Ceremonies

    Since the COVID-19 pandemic, IRCC has offered virtual citizenship ceremonies via video conference. The process is the same, but you attend from home. Your certificate is mailed to you afterward.