The Oath of Citizenship is the final and most meaningful step in becoming a Canadian citizen. This guide covers everything — the full oath text, what to expect at the ceremony, and what to do afterwards.
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The Oath of Citizenship — Full Text
English Version
*"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."*
French Version (Serment de citoyennete)
*"Je jure (ou j'affirme solennellement) que je serai fidele et porterai sincere allegeance a Sa Majeste le Roi Charles Trois, Roi du Canada, a ses heritiers et successeurs, que j'observerai fidelement les lois du Canada, y compris la Constitution, qui reconnait et confirme les droits — ancestraux ou issus de traites — des peuples autochtones, soit combiner les Premieres Nations, les Inuit et les Metis, et que je remplirai loyalement mes obligations de citoyen canadien."*
Note: You can choose to "swear" (religious) or "affirm" (secular). Both are equally valid and legally binding.
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What to Expect at the Ceremony
Before the Ceremony
- Receive your invitation — Sent to your IRCC online account (1-3 months after passing the test)
- Confirm your attendance — Respond to the invitation promptly
- Prepare your documents — PR card, invitation letter, photo ID
During the Ceremony
- Check-in — Arrive early (30 minutes for in-person) to register and verify your identity
- Welcome address — A citizenship judge or presiding official opens the ceremony
- Take the Oath — Stand, raise your right hand, and recite the Oath of Citizenship together with other new citizens
- Receive your certificate — Your citizenship certificate is presented to you
- Singing O Canada — The ceremony typically closes with the national anthem
- Celebration — Photos, handshakes, and congratulations
After the Ceremony
- You are immediately a Canadian citizen from the moment you take the Oath
- Apply for your passport — You can apply the same day
- Update your records — Notify your employer, bank, province, and CRA
- Register to vote — You can now vote in all Canadian elections
- Celebrate — You have earned it
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In-Person vs Virtual Ceremonies
| Feature | In-Person | Virtual |
|---|---|---|
| Location | IRCC office or community venue | Your home via video call |
| Duration | 60-90 minutes | 45-60 minutes |
| Guests | Family and friends welcome | Family can watch at home |
| Certificate | Handed to you in person | Mailed after the ceremony |
| Photos | Photo opportunities available | Screenshot your own |
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What to Bring
Required:
- Permanent resident card
- Test invitation or correspondence from IRCC
- Government-issued photo ID
- Confirmation of ceremony attendance
Optional but recommended:
- Camera or phone for photos
- A small Canadian flag (often provided)
- Tissues — it can be emotional
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Timeline: From Test to Oath
| Step | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Pass the citizenship test | Day 0 |
| Receive ceremony invitation | 2-8 weeks |
| Attend ceremony | 1-3 months after test |
| Receive citizenship certificate | At ceremony (or mailed for virtual) |
| Apply for Canadian passport | Same day or next day |
| Receive passport | 2-4 weeks (regular processing) |
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Related Guides
- [Full citizenship application guide](/citizenship-application) — Step-by-step process
- [How long does citizenship take?](/blog/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-canadian-citizenship) — Complete timeline
- [Citizenship test preparation](/practice-test) — 600+ practice questions
- [20 free practice questions](/practice-test/free) — Start studying now
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Frequently Asked Questions
1What is the text of the Canadian Oath of Citizenship?
The oath reads: '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.'
2How long after the citizenship test is the oath ceremony?
The oath ceremony is typically scheduled 1-3 months after passing the citizenship test. Some applicants receive their ceremony invitation within weeks.
3What should I wear to the citizenship ceremony?
There is no strict dress code, but most people wear business casual or semi-formal attire. Many new citizens wear traditional clothing from their country of origin, which is encouraged and welcomed.
4Can family members attend the citizenship ceremony?
Yes. Family members and friends are welcome to attend in-person ceremonies. For virtual ceremonies, they can watch alongside you at home.
5What happens if I miss my oath ceremony?
Contact IRCC immediately to reschedule. Missing without notice could delay your citizenship. IRCC will work with you to find a new date.