The citizenship ceremony is the final and most emotional step of your journey to becoming Canadian. At its heart is the Oath of Citizenship — a pledge that formally makes you a citizen. Here is everything you need to know. CitizenPass makes mastering this easy — read on, then start practicing for free.
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The Oath of Citizenship — 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 Métis peoples, and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen."*
French Version
*"Je jure (ou j'affirme solennellement) que je serai fidèle et porterai sincère allégeance à Sa Majesté le Roi Charles Trois, Roi du Canada, à ses héritiers et successeurs, que j'observerai fidèlement les lois du Canada, y compris la Constitution, qui reconnaît et confirme les droits — ancestraux ou issus de traités — des peuples autochtones, notamment les Premières Nations, les Inuit et les Métis, et que je remplirai loyalement mes obligations de citoyen canadien."*
Meaning of Each Phrase
"I swear (or affirm)"
You have the choice between swearing (which traditionally has a religious context) or affirming (which is secular). Both are legally identical. Choose whichever feels right for you.
"faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, King of Canada"
This pledges loyalty to the Canadian Crown — the institution of the monarchy as part of Canada's constitutional system. It is a pledge to Canada's system of government, not a personal pledge to the individual monarch.
"His Heirs and Successors"
This extends the pledge to future monarchs, ensuring continuity of the constitutional commitment.
"faithfully observe the laws of Canada, including the Constitution"
You commit to following Canadian laws and respecting the Constitution, including the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
"which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples"
Added in 2021, this clause acknowledges and commits to respecting the rights of Indigenous peoples as recognized in the Constitution.
"fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen"
You commit to the responsibilities of citizenship: obeying laws, serving on juries, voting, paying taxes, and contributing to Canadian society.
What to Expect at the Ceremony
Before the Ceremony
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early
- Bring your ceremony notice, PR card, and photo ID
- Check in with IRCC staff at the registration desk
- You will be seated in a ceremony hall with other new citizens
During the Ceremony
- A citizenship judge or presiding official leads the ceremony
- There may be speeches about the significance of citizenship
- All candidates stand and recite the oath together
- The oath is typically led in both English and French
- After the oath, you are officially a Canadian citizen
After the Ceremony
- You receive your citizenship certificate (or it is mailed shortly after)
- Many ceremonies include a flag, a small gift, or a commemorative pin
- Photos are welcome — this is a celebration
- Some ceremonies include musical performances or cultural presentations
What to Bring to the Ceremony
- Your ceremony notice (the invitation letter from IRCC)
- Your permanent resident card
- One piece of government-issued photo ID
- Any additional documents specifically requested in your notice
- Family and friends who want to celebrate with you
Virtual Citizenship Ceremonies
During the pandemic, IRCC introduced virtual ceremonies. As of 2026, most ceremonies have returned to in-person format. However, virtual ceremonies may still be available in certain circumstances (remote locations, accessibility needs). Check with IRCC for current options.
This Is a Milestone — Celebrate It
The citizenship ceremony is one of the most meaningful moments in the lives of new Canadians. It represents years of effort, adaptation, and commitment. Whether you arrived as a refugee, a student, a worker, or through family sponsorship — this is the moment you officially belong.
Take photos. Bring your family. Celebrate your achievement.
Pass Your Citizenship Test — With CitizenPass
The ceremony comes after the test. Make sure you are ready:
- 600+ Practice Questions — Same format as the real IRCC test, with detailed explanations for every answer
- AI-Powered Coach — Identifies your weak areas and builds a personalized study plan just for you
- 80+ Bite-Sized Lessons — All 12 Discover Canada chapters, broken into 10-minute study sessions
- Real-Time Progress Tracking — See exactly when you are ready to pass
- Bilingual Support — Study in English or French, switch anytime
- Mobile + Desktop — Available on iOS, Android, and web — study anywhere
CitizenPass users score an average of 18/20 on their first attempt — well above the 15/20 passing score.
Your Canadian dream is one test away. Join thousands of successful new Canadians — start your free CitizenPass preparation today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1Can I affirm instead of swear?
Yes. You have the choice to 'swear' (which has a religious connotation) or 'affirm' (which is secular). Both are legally identical and equally valid.
2Can I take the oath in French?
Yes. The oath can be taken in English, French, or both languages. At most ceremonies, the oath is recited in both languages by the group.
3What if I cannot attend the ceremony?
You must attend the ceremony to become a citizen. If you cannot attend your scheduled ceremony, contact IRCC to request a new date. Do not simply skip it — your application could be closed.
4Can family members attend the ceremony?
Yes. Family members, friends, and other guests are typically welcome to attend and watch. Some ceremonies have seating limits, so check your invitation for details.
5What document do I receive at the ceremony?
You receive your Canadian citizenship certificate at the ceremony (or shortly after). This is your official proof of citizenship and can be used to apply for a Canadian passport.