In recent years, virtual citizenship ceremonies have become increasingly common in Canada. While these ceremonies were traditionally held in person, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) adapted to virtual formats during the pandemic to ensure health safety and reduce application backlogs.
Despite the lifting of pandemic restrictions, virtual ceremonies remain more prevalent than in-person events. Between January and September 2023, IRCC facilitated an average of 52 in-person citizenship ceremonies and 224 virtual ceremonies each month.
The citizenship ceremony is a significant milestone for anyone aspiring to become a Canadian citizen. During the event, candidates sing the national anthem and take the Oath of Citizenship before a judge, pledging to respect Canada’s laws and uphold the duties of citizenship. Once you recite this oath, you officially become a Canadian citizen.
How Virtual Ceremonies are Conducted:
Virtual Canadian citizenship ceremonies are conducted over Zoom, and most sessions include multiple participants, lasting up to 1.5 hours. Family and friends are welcome to be present in the room with you during this memorable moment.
A citizenship judge or other Presiding Official, along with an IRCC representative, will oversee the ceremony and administer the oath. Participants are expected to dress appropriately, with business attire recommended, though traditional or religious dress is also permitted.
You must be physically present in Canada to take the Oath of Citizenship. If you’re abroad on the scheduled date, it’s important to notify IRCC immediately to explain your situation.
Before the Ceremony:
- Scheduling the Ceremony: Expect an email or phone call from IRCC about one to two weeks before your ceremony. This invitation will include the ceremony date and time, a checklist of items to prepare, rescheduling options, and the Zoom link for the event.
- Required Technology: Ensure you have access to a device with internet connectivity and audio/video capabilities, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Download Zoom in advance if you haven’t already.
- Screen Setup: It’s recommended that you set up your screen with a plain background and position your camera so that your head and shoulders are clearly visible. While Zoom’s virtual backgrounds are discouraged, you can display Canadian-themed items or red and white colours.
- Documents and Tools Needed: You will receive a checklist from IRCC listing all required items for the ceremony, including:
- Your PR card (even if expired), Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), or record of landing (if applicable).
- Two pieces of personal identification (e.g., PR card, health card, or driver’s license).
- Scissors for cutting up your PR card.
- Optional: a holy book if you wish to use one during the Oath of Citizenship.
- Optional: a phone to take a commemorative selfie at the end of the ceremony.
During the Ceremony:
On the day of the ceremony, click the Zoom link at the designated time and ensure your audio and video are functioning. The ceremony consists of two phases:
- Registration Phase: In a separate Zoom room, an IRCC official will verify your identity and ask you to cut your PR card on camera. You’ll also be asked how you’d like to receive your citizenship certificate.
- Video Oath Phase: After registration, you’ll join the main room for the Oath of Citizenship. A judge will welcome the participants, explain the significance of Canadian citizenship, and lead the recitation of the oath. Participants will also sing the national anthem. You might want to practice the oath and anthem beforehand.
At the end of the ceremony, you’ll have an opportunity to take a selfie with the judge for personal use, but photos or recordings are not allowed during the registration or ceremony.
If you get disconnected, try reconnecting with the same Zoom link and passcode. If unable to reconnect, contact IRCC to reschedule.
After the Ceremony:
- Sign the Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship Form: After the ceremony, you must sign the Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship form and send it to IRCC promptly. The form will be sent to you before the ceremony. You can either print, sign, and scan the form or sign it electronically. Send the completed form as a PDF or JPG via email to IRCC.
- Wait for Your Citizenship Certificate: Once IRCC processes your signed form, you’ll receive your citizenship certificate. You can choose to receive it as:
- An e-certificate, available within five business days in the IRCC portal.
- A paper certificate, which may take two to four weeks to arrive by mail.
If you do not receive your paper certificate after six weeks, you should contact IRCC.
The citizenship certificate serves as proof of your Canadian citizenship but is not a valid travel document. To travel outside Canada, you must apply for a Canadian passport.
For personalized guidance on your citizenship process, schedule a free Canadian Citizenship Consultation with Skynet Immigration and Consultants. We’re here to support you through every step of your immigration journey!
