The Shift to Virtual Ceremonies
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) adapted the process of granting Canadian citizenship by introducing virtual ceremonies. This change was initially made to support social distancing and help alleviate processing backlogs. Surprisingly, even after pandemic restrictions were lifted, virtual citizenship ceremonies remained a preferred choice. Compared to an average of just 52 in-person ceremonies from January to September 2023, an impressive 224 virtual ceremonies were conducted monthly.
The Ceremony
A citizenship ceremony is a pivotal event for aspiring Canadian citizens. During this online gathering, participants sing the national anthem and recite the Oath of Citizenship under the watchful eyes of a presiding officer and an IRCC official. This oath is a solemn vow to respect Canadian laws and fulfill the responsibilities of citizenship. Once completed, new citizens officially join the Canadian community.
Conducting the Ceremony Virtually
Virtual ceremonies take place on Zoom, accommodating multiple participants at once. The event typically lasts about 1.5 hours, allowing family and friends to share in the experience from home. While business attire is recommended, attendees can wear traditional or religious garments as preferred. It’s crucial for participants to remain in Canada during this procedure; those outside must contact IRCC for guidance.
Preparing for Your Ceremony
Expect an email or phone invitation from IRCC one to two weeks before your scheduled date, detailing all necessary information including timing, Zoom link, required documents, and rescheduling options if needed. Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and access via computer, tablet, or phone with audio-video capabilities.
Create a suitable environment by choosing a plain background for video calls—displaying any Canadian-themed items or red and white decorations is encouraged. Refrain from using Zoom’s virtual backgrounds which could detract from the ceremony’s significance.
Required Documents for Oath Taking
Be prepared with necessary documentation: your PR card (expired or not), Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), record of landing (if applicable), and two IDs — one being PR-related while another must be government-issued like health cards or driver’s licenses.
The Virtual Ceremony Process
The virtual citizenship ceremony involves two key stages: the registration phase and the video oath phase.
Registration Phase:
The ceremony begins with the registration phase hosted in a dedicated Zoom Room. During this stage, an IRCC official will verify your identity. You’ll be required to cut your PR card in view of your camera and respond to several questions, including how you wish to receive your citizenship certificate.
Video Oath Phase:
After registration, you will transition back to the main room for the oath-taking ceremony, which is the primary component of becoming a Canadian citizen. A citizenship judge will deliver a welcome address, highlighting the significance of Canadian citizenship. Participants will then have the opportunity to recite the Oath of Citizenship and sing “O Canada,” alongside fellow attendees.
Upon conclusion of the ceremony, you may capture a personal selfie with the judge displayed on your screen to commemorate this milestone. However, taking photos or recordings at any other time during the ceremony is strictly prohibited.
If you encounter any technical issues and get disconnected during the ceremony, attempt to rejoin using the same Zoom link and pass code. In cases where reconnection proves impossible, contact IRCC to arrange an alternate ceremony appointment.
After the Ceremony
Following your oath-taking, you’ll be prompted to sign and promptly email the Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship form back to IRCC. This form will be provided prior to the ceremony. You can either print, sign, and scan or photograph it or choose to use an electronic signature option.
Once processed by IRCC, you will receive your Canadian citizenship certificate—your proof of Canadian citizenship. You have two delivery options for receiving this document. Should six weeks elapse without receiving your paper certificate, it is advisable to contact IRCC.
Please note that while the citizenship certificate serves as proof of citizenship, it cannot be used as a travel document. For international travel plans, obtaining a Canadian passport is essential.
