The Oath of Canadian Citizenship: Its Meaning, History, and Significance

The Oath of Citizenship is the final step in becoming Canadian. Understanding its words and significance adds meaning to this milestone moment.

The Words of the Oath

The current Oath of Citizenship reads:

*"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 recognises and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen."*

Breaking Down the Oath

"I swear (or affirm)"

You may either swear (a religious oath) or affirm (a non-religious declaration). Both are equally valid.

"Faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third"

Canada is a constitutional monarchy. The Sovereign represents the Canadian state. Swearing allegiance to the King is swearing allegiance to Canada and its institutions.

"King of Canada"

The King has a separate Canadian role. Charles III is King of Canada, distinct from his role as King of the United Kingdom or other realms.

"His Heirs and Successors"

This ensures continuity — your allegiance extends to future monarchs.

"Faithfully observe the laws of Canada, including the Constitution"

You commit to obeying all Canadian laws, from local bylaws to the Constitution.

"Which recognises and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples"

This clause was added in 2021 to acknowledge the rights of Aboriginal peoples as part of Canada's constitutional framework.

"Fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen"

You commit to the responsibilities of citizenship: voting, serving on a jury, obeying laws, and contributing to your community.

History of the Oath

The Oath has evolved over time:

1947: First Canadian Oath

Before 1947, there was no separate Canadian citizenship — Canadians were British subjects. The Canadian Citizenship Act of 1947 created the first distinct Canadian citizenship and oath.

1977: Updated Oath

The Citizenship Act of 1977 updated the oath to reflect changes in Canadian identity.

2021: Addition of Aboriginal Rights

The oath was amended to include recognition of Aboriginal and treaty rights, reflecting Canada's commitment to reconciliation.

The Ceremony

The Oath is taken at a citizenship ceremony, presided over by a citizenship judge. You stand, raise your right hand, and repeat the words. You may take it in English, French, or both.

After the Oath, you sign the oath form and receive your citizenship certificate.

What the Oath Means in Practice

By taking the Oath, you commit to:

Obeying the Law

This includes all federal, provincial, and municipal laws. Canadian law applies equally to all citizens.

Respecting Rights

You acknowledge the rights of all Canadians, including Aboriginal peoples, and commit to living in a society that values equality, freedom, and justice.

Civic Participation

As a citizen, you are expected to vote, serve on a jury when called, and contribute to your community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I affirm instead of swear?

Yes. Affirming is a non-religious alternative that is equally valid.

In which languages can I take the Oath?

English, French, or both.

What if I disagree with swearing to the King?

The Oath is required. However, allegiance to the King is allegiance to the Canadian state and its democratic institutions, not to any individual.

Can I take the Oath quietly?

You should participate audibly, but if you have concerns, speak with the citizenship judge.

The Oath is the culmination of your journey. Understand its significance and prepare with our [Study Hub](/dashboard/study).