The moment finally arrives when you are asked to stand up and raise your right hand to take the Canadian oath of citizenship. It is the final step in a long journey that began the day you decided to start a new life in this country. It was not easy. It took time, patience, nerves, and more than a few headaches. But you made it! You will soon see that life as a Canadian citizen is truly worthwhile.
Of course, before you can enjoy the benefits of citizenship, you must take the oath. And it’s a good idea to practice several times before your ceremony. Not to pass a test, but to feel calm and confident, ensuring that everything goes smoothly on that important day.
What do you promise in the Canadian oath of citizenship?
The Canada oath of citizenship is the legal act that completes the naturalization process. At first, it may seem like a simple formality. Something quick and not very important. However, that idea is far from the truth. Even if Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has approved your application and you have passed the citizenship test, you will not become a citizen until you take the oath.
Do you remember the requirements for Canadian citizenship? Well, the citizenship oath is one of the most important. By taking it, you confirm that you accept full membership in Canadian society and respect its laws, culture, and people.
You take the oath to the Sovereign of Canada, currently His Majesty King Charles III, King of Canada, and to his heirs and successors. As you may know, Canada is a constitutional monarchy. This means the King is the Head of State and represents the country’s constitutional order and democratic legal system. Therefore, swearing loyalty to the King signifies allegiance to Canada as a nation and its system of government under the Constitution.
In short, when you take the Canada oath of citizenship, you make two critical promises. First, you promise loyalty to the Sovereign and his lawful successors. Second, you promise to respect and follow Canada’s laws, including the Constitution and the rights it protects, and to fulfill your duties as a citizen.
Who must take the oath during the ceremony?
According to the Government of Canada, all adults whose citizenship applications have been approved must take the oath as the final step in the process. This includes permanent residents who have met the physical presence requirements, passed the test, and received an official invitation to the citizenship ceremony. Regardless of their country of origin, language, religion, or past status, no adult becomes a Canadian citizen without taking the oath. The key detail here is the applicant’s age.
All individuals 18 years of age or older must take the oath to become Canadian citizens. Youth aged 14 to 17 must also take the oath if their citizenship application is approved. In these cases, it is recommended that a parent or legal guardian attend the ceremony to support the minor, if needed.
Children under 14 are not required to take the Canadian oath of citizenship. However, they are usually invited to attend the ceremony with their parents. If they wish and are able, they may repeat the oath with the other applicants.
If you are an adult or 14 years of age or older, it is essential to say the oath of citizenship Canada in full. If the judge or official leading the ceremony believes that you are not reciting the oath correctly, you may be asked to leave the room. If that happens, your naturalization process will not be completed, and you will not receive your citizenship certificate.
The IRCC offers accommodations and exemptions for people who cannot take the oath due to accessibility needs or disabilities. These options are available but must be requested and approved in advance.
What is the current oath of citizenship in Canada?
Below is the updated oath, written in both the official languages: English and French. During the ceremony, both versions will be recited, and you may choose which language to use. The choice is entirely up to you. However, the government encourages new citizens to recite the oath in both languages when possible. Doing so demonstrates respect for Canada’s two official languages and the country as a whole.
As mentioned earlier, it is essential to practice the oath before your citizenship ceremony. Practicing helps you avoid mistakes. Keep in mind that this is an emotional day. With all the nerves and excitement, it’s easy to mix up words. So take your time. Read the oath carefully, and practice saying it out loud a few times. You do not need to memorize it. During the ceremony, you will receive a booklet with clear instructions and both the English and French versions of the oath.
One important detail to know is how the Canadian oath of citizenship begins. The official wording starts with “I swear…“ However, if you prefer, you may replace this with “I affirm that I will be faithful…“ Both options are entirely accepted and have the same legal value.
English version of the oath of citizenship Canada.
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 fulfill my duties
As a Canadian citizen.
French version of the Canadian oath of citizenship: Le serment de citoyenneté
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 Premières Nations, des Inuits et des Métis
Et que je remplirai loyalement
Mes obligations
De citoyen canadien.
In summary…
That’s it! You now have both official versions of the Candian oath of citizenship. Practice it before your ceremony so that you feel prepared and confident. One last piece of advice: Enjoy the moment! You have been through a lot to get here, and this day is yours. It’s okay to feel proud, emotional, and happy.
If you have more questions about the citizenship process or what comes next, please leave them in the comments. We’re here to help!