What Happens After You Pass the Canadian Citizenship Test?
Quick Answer
After passing the citizenship test and interview, you will receive an invitation to a citizenship ceremony (typically 1-6 months later). At the ceremony, you take the Oath of Citizenship and receive your Certificate of Canadian Citizenship. From that moment, you are a Canadian citizen.
The Journey After the Test
Congratulations on passing the Canadian citizenship test! Here is what happens next.
The Oath Ceremony
After passing the test and interview, IRCC will schedule your citizenship ceremony. This is the final step in your journey to becoming a Canadian citizen.
Timeline: The ceremony is typically scheduled 1-6 months after you pass the test. Wait times vary by location — major cities like Toronto and Vancouver may have longer waits due to higher volume.
What to Bring: - Your Permanent Resident Card - The ceremony invitation letter from IRCC - Photo ID
What Happens: 1. Check-in and identity verification 2. A judge or presiding official welcomes the group 3. You take the Oath of Citizenship together with other new citizens 4. You receive your Certificate of Canadian Citizenship 5. O Canada is sung 6. Photos and celebration with family
The Oath of Citizenship
The oath you will take:
"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 Métis peoples, and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen."
Your Citizenship Certificate
The Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is your official proof of citizenship. Keep it in a safe place — you will need it to apply for a Canadian passport. The certificate includes your photo, full name, date of birth, and a unique certificate number.
Immediate Next Steps
1. Apply for a Canadian Passport
You can apply immediately after your ceremony. A Canadian passport is the most widely accepted proof of citizenship and allows you to travel internationally.
2. Register to Vote
As a Canadian citizen, you now have the right to vote in all elections. Register with Elections Canada online.
3. Update Your Provincial Health Card
Contact your provincial health ministry to update your status from permanent resident to citizen.
4. Notify Your Bank
Inform your bank of your new citizenship status. This may affect your eligibility for certain financial products.
5. Update Your Employer
Provide your employer with your new citizenship documentation.
CitizenApp's New Canadian Guide
CitizenApp's New Canadian Guide walks you through every post-citizenship step in detail, including how to apply for a passport, register to vote, access healthcare, and understand your new benefits. Access it free in the app after passing your mock test.
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Test Your Knowledge
What do you promise to do at the citizenship ceremony?
Key Facts
- Citizenship ceremony is the final step to becoming Canadian
- You receive your Certificate of Canadian Citizenship at the ceremony
- Apply for your passport immediately after the ceremony
- Register to vote with Elections Canada
- Enroll in provincial healthcare
- You are eligible for all citizen benefits from day one
- CitizenApp's New Canadian Guide covers all post-citizenship steps
Frequently Asked Questions
How long after the test is the citizenship ceremony?
The ceremony is typically scheduled within 1-6 months after passing the test and interview. Wait times vary by location.
What do I need to bring to the citizenship ceremony?
Bring your PR Card, the ceremony invitation letter, and photo ID. Family members are welcome to attend as guests.
What is the first thing I should do after becoming a citizen?
Apply for your Canadian passport, register to vote with Elections Canada, and update your provincial health card. CitizenApp's New Canadian Guide walks you through every step.
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