The oath ceremony is the final step in the process of obtaining Canadian citizenship. It is one of the most important parts of the process and mandatory for all applicants.
You may attend your ceremony in person or virtually. The ceremony usually lasts about an hour. It is crucial that you arrive early and bring all the required documents.
How long after the test is the citizenship ceremony?
Once you have completed the process and passed the citizenship test, IRCC will send you a Notice to Appear. The letter will include the date, location, and format of your ceremony.
Waiting times vary depending on the local office handling your case. Generally, you can expect your ceremony to take place two to three months after passing the test and after IRCC approves your application.
You can track your application status in your online account. If the status is “In Progress,” IRCC is currently organizing your ceremony, and you will receive your invitation soon.
The invitation will arrive at least one week before the scheduled date.
What should you do if you cannot attend the Canadian citizenship ceremony?
If an emergency arises, you must notify IRCC and request a rescheduled appointment. To do so, explain your situation via email or the IRCC web form.
You must provide a valid reason, such as being outside the country, a family emergency, or a lack of childcare.
You must submit this request within 30 days of the date listed on your invitation. The IRCC will review your case and decide on the next steps based on your explanation.
Where does the oath ceremony for citizenship take place?
Canadian citizenship ceremonies are either in-person or virtual. The IRCC will provide the exact location or video call link in your invitation letter.
In some cases, you can request a different format. However, remember that the link for a virtual ceremony is personal. Do not share it with anyone, not even family members who applied with you.
Virtual Ceremony
Currently, this is the most common way to hold a Canadian citizenship ceremony.
- Platform: The ceremony takes place on Zoom.
- Location: You must be physically located in Canada. If you are outside of Canada, notify IRCC immediately so they can reschedule your appointment.
- Technical requirements: You need a stable internet connection and a working microphone. Your webcam must stay on at all times.
- Setting: You must be alone in a quiet, private room. You cannot attend the ceremony from public places, such as coffee shops or parks.
- Dress Code: Even at home, you should dress appropriately. A business casual look is your best bet.
In-Person Ceremony
IRCC usually reserves in-person events for large groups on holidays, like Canada Day, or for candidates who require special accommodations.
- Location: One of the IRCC offices.
- Guests: Generally, you can bring 1 or 2 guests.
- Dress code: We recommend business casual attire or traditional national dress to honor the solemnity of the event.
What happens on the day of your citizenship ceremony?
Let’s go over everything that happens during your citizenship ceremony, step by step.
1. Check-in & identity verification
An IRCC official will review your documents and confirm your identity. Important: Until this point, you are still a permanent resident.
2. The welcome address
A judge or citizenship official will open the ceremony by explaining the rights and responsibilities of new Canadians.
3. The oath of citizenship
You will stand and recite the citizenship oath in English and/or French. This is the exact moment you legally become a citizen.
4. Signing the Form OAC
If your ceremony is virtual, you must digitally sign the form immediately after taking the oath.
5. National Anthem:
You will sing “O Canada” for the first time as an official citizen.
6. The certificate
You will receive final instructions on how to download your e-certificate or pick up your physical diploma..
Which documents should you bring to your Canadian citizenship ceremony?
This is a critical part of the process. To ensure everything goes smoothly, you must bring the correct documents. There aren’t many, but they are mandatory. Here is your checklist:
Mandatory for everyone:
- Notice to Appear: Your official convocation letter.
- Permanent Resident Card: You must present this, even if it has expired.
- Two pieces of ID: At least one must include your photo and signature (e.g., an original passport or driver’s license).
- IDs for minors: If you are representing a minor, please bring your own identification.
- Signed consent form: Included in your invitation package.
Note: If you do not have a PR card, please bring your Record of Landing (IMM 1000) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292/5688).
Special requirements for virtual ceremonies:
- Virtual Seat Number: You can find this on the first page of your invitation.
- Scissors: The officiant will ask you to cut your PR card in front of the camera after the oath.
- Signed consent form: Allows photos or recordings if requested by the IRCC.
What to wear for a Canadian citizenship ceremony?
Although IRCC does not set an official dress code, that does not mean you can wear whatever you want. Remember, it is a formal event. It is the day you become a Canadian citizen. For this reason, it is best to dress formally or semi-formally, as you would for a job interview or graduation.
Men can wear a collared shirt and dress pants. A suit is also a good option, but not required.
Women can wear formal blouses, dress pants, simple dresses, or two-piece suits. The goal is to look neat, respectful, and appropriate for the occasion.
Avoid ripped jeans, shorts, sleeveless shirts, hats, and flip-flops. While these items are not banned, they do not reflect the event’s importance and may create a negative impression.
If your Canadian citizenship ceremony is in person avoid strong perfumes or colognes. Ceremonies often take place in enclosed spaces, and strong scents can cause discomfort for others, such as headaches or breathing issues.
In summary
This is everything you need to know about your Canadian citizenship ceremony. As you can see, it’s an easy process if you’re prepared. Just bring the right documents, dress appropriately, and show up (or log on) on time.
Once the ceremony ends and you receive your certificate, you can start enjoying the benefits of citizenship. You will also be eligible to apply for your Canadian passport.
That’s it! Congratulations on making it this far!
If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments. We are here to help.