Guide to Your Canadian Citizenship Ceremony πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦πŸŽ‰

Becoming a Canadian citizen is an exciting milestone! Whether you’re attending an in-person or online ceremony, this guide will help you prepare and make the most of this special occasion.

Source: Canada.ca

Who Needs to Attend? πŸ‘₯

  • Adults and children aged 14 or over: Must attend the citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship.
  • Children under 14: Do not have to attend but are welcome. Parents will receive their citizenship certificates.

Documents to Bring πŸ“„

  • Ceremony notice
  • Signed Permission Release and Consent form (included with your notice)
  • Permanent Resident Card (even if expired) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM5292 or IMM5688)
  • Record of Landing (IMM 1000) (if you became a permanent resident before June 28, 2002)
  • Two pieces of ID:
    • One with your photograph and signature (e.g., driver’s license, health card).
    • Foreign IDs must be government-issued. Translations with an affidavit are required for non-English or non-French IDs.
    • Minors are not required to show ID with a signature.
  • All passports and travel documents listed on your application.
  • Optional: A holy book, if you wish to swear the oath on it.

Things to Prepare 🧰

  • Dress nicely: Formal attire is recommended to mark this special occasion.
  • Holy book: Bring it if you prefer to swear the oath on one.
  • For online ceremonies:
    • Download and install Zoom beforehand.
    • Ensure your browser is compatible with Zoom’s web version, or use the desktop app.

Ceremony Process 🎀

  • Opening remarks: A citizenship judge or official will preside over the event.
  • Taking the oath: Swear (with a holy book) or affirm (without religious reference). Once you take the Oath of Citizenship, you’re officially a Canadian citizen! πŸŽ‰
  • Singing the national anthem: Sing the bilingual version of O Canada (lyrics will be provided).
  • Receiving your certificate: Your Citizenship Certificate will serve as proof of your new status. Keep it in a safe place.

Oath of Citizenship πŸ’¬

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 MΓ©tis peoples
And fulfill my duties as a Canadian citizen.

After the Ceremony πŸ“Έ

  • Take a photo: Capture the moment with the officiant.
  • Sign the form: Complete and send the signed Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship form to the email provided.

Tips for Success 🌟

  • Arrive early (or log in early for online ceremonies).
  • Bring all required documents to avoid delays.
  • Practice the oath and anthem to feel confident.

Congratulations! πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Welcome to the Canadian family! πŸŽ‰