Oath of Citizenship (Canada)

The Oath of Citizenship is a solemn declaration made by individuals becoming Canadian citizens. It is a public promise to uphold the values, laws, and responsibilities associated with Canadian citizenship. The oath is a requirement under the Citizenship Act and must be taken at a citizenship ceremony.

The current wording of the Oath, effective since 1947, is:

"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, and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen."

Alternatives such as replacing "swear" with "solemnly affirm" are permitted to accommodate religious beliefs or personal convictions.

The significance of the oath lies in its explicit commitment to the Crown, the laws of Canada, and the responsibilities of citizenship. While the oath has remained largely unchanged for decades, its interpretation and impact on the rights and obligations of citizens continue to be subjects of legal and scholarly debate.

Failure to take the Oath of Citizenship prevents an applicant from becoming a Canadian citizen.