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Writer's pictureParisa Erfani

What to Expect at Your Virtual Citizenship Ceremony in Canada



Virtual citizenship ceremonies have become commonplace in Canada.


Previously conducted in person, these ceremonies shifted to a virtual format during the pandemic as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented them to comply with social distancing guidelines and alleviate the backlog.


Even with the end of pandemic restrictions, virtual ceremonies have become more prevalent than in-person events. From January to September 2023, IRCC held an average of 52 in-person citizenship ceremonies and 224 virtual ones each month.


The citizenship ceremony is a significant occasion for those looking to become Canadian citizens. During the event, eligible applicants sing the Canadian national anthem and take the Oath of Citizenship in front of a judge and their loved ones. This oath represents a formal commitment to obey Canada’s laws and fulfill the responsibilities of citizenship. Once you take this oath, you officially become a Canadian citizen.


How the Ceremony is Conducted:


Canada’s virtual citizenship ceremony is held via Zoom.


Most ceremonies involve multiple participants and last up to 1.5 hours. Family and friends are welcome to join you in the room. A Presiding Official, such as a citizenship judge, along with an IRCC official, will oversee the ceremony and administer the oath.


You are expected to dress appropriately, with business attire recommended. Traditional or religious clothing and head coverings are permitted.


To take the Oath of Citizenship, you must be in Canada. If you are outside the country on the scheduled date, you should contact IRCC to explain your situation.


Before the Ceremony:


Scheduling the Ceremony:

You can expect an email or phone call from IRCC one to two weeks in advance, detailing the date and time of the ceremony, what to bring, how to reschedule if necessary, and the Zoom link.


Required Technology:

Ensure you have access to the internet and a device (computer, tablet, or phone) with audio and video capabilities. If you don’t have a device, make arrangements to obtain one and download Zoom.


Screen Setup:

IRCC recommends selecting a plain background for your ceremony and adjusting your camera for stability, ensuring your head and shoulders are visible. Zoom virtual backgrounds are discouraged, but you can display Canadian-themed items or use red and white colors.


Documents and Tools Needed:

You will receive a checklist of items to have ready for the ceremony, including:


- Your PR card (even if expired) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and your record of landing (if applicable).

- Two forms of personal identification (one can be your PR card; the other should be Canadian federal, provincial, or territorial ID like a health card or driver’s license).

- A pair of scissors for cutting your PR card during the session.

- Optionally, a holy book if you wish to use one for the Oath of Citizenship.

- Optionally, your phone for taking a selfie at the end of the ceremony.


During the Ceremony:


On the day of the ceremony, click the Zoom link at the designated time to join the session and ensure your audio and video are functioning.


The ceremony consists of two phases: registration and the video oath.


Registration:

In a separate Zoom Room, an IRCC official will verify your identity. You will cut your PR card in front of the camera and answer a few questions, including how you’d like to receive your citizenship certificate.


Video Oath:

After registration, you’ll return to the main room for the oath ceremony. A judge will welcome you and discuss what it means to be a Canadian citizen. You will then recite the Oath of Citizenship and sing the national anthem alongside other participants. It’s a good idea to practice both in advance.


At the end of the ceremony, you’ll have the chance to take a selfie with the judge visible on screen to commemorate the occasion. Photography or recordings are not allowed at any other time during the ceremony.


If you get disconnected during the ceremony, try reconnecting with the same Zoom link and passcode. If you cannot reconnect, contact IRCC to reschedule.


After the Ceremony:


Sign the Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship Form:

You must sign and email the Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship form to IRCC immediately after the ceremony. This form will be sent to you beforehand.


If you prefer a printed version, you’ll need to scan or photograph the signed form, or you can sign it electronically.


After signing, email the document to IRCC as a PDF or JPG.


Wait for Your Citizenship Certificate:

Once IRCC processes the form, you will receive your Canadian citizenship certificate as proof of your citizenship. You can choose one of two delivery methods:


- An e-certificate available in the IRCC portal within five business days after your signed form is received.

- A paper certificate delivered by mail, which may take two to four weeks.


If you do not receive your paper certificate after six weeks, contact IRCC.


Once you have your citizenship certificate, it can be used as proof of citizenship when applying for a Canadian passport. Please note that the citizenship certificate is not a valid travel document; you must apply for a Canadian passport for international travel.


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