The Canadian Oath of Citizenship: Full Text, Meaning & What to Expect (2026)

The oath of citizenship is the final step in becoming a Canadian citizen. Here's the complete text, what every word means, and how to prepare.

The Full Text of the Oath

English Version

*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.*

French Version (Version française)

*Je jure (ou j'affirme solennellement) que je serai fidèle et porterai sincère allégeance à Sa Majesté le Roi Charles Trois, Roi du Canada, à ses héritiers et successeurs, que j'observerai fidèlement les lois du Canada, y compris la Constitution, qui reconnaît et confirme les droits — Loss ancestraux ou issus de traités — des Premières Nations, des Inuits et des Métis, et que je remplirai loyalement mes obligations de citoyen canadien.*

What Each Part Means

"I swear (or affirm)"

• "I swear" — A religious oath, traditionally made before God
• "I affirm" — A non-religious version with the same legal weight
• Your choice — You decide which to use at the ceremony. Both are equally valid.

"Faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty"

This means loyalty to Canada's system of government — the constitutional monarchy. You're not pledging personal loyalty to King Charles as an individual, but to the institution of the Crown as Canada's Head of State.

"King of Canada, His Heirs and Successors"

This ensures the oath remains valid as the monarchy passes from one generation to the next. The "King of Canada" is a distinct title — separate from "King of the United Kingdom."

"Faithfully observe the laws of Canada"

You're promising to obey all Canadian laws — federal, provincial, and municipal. This is a core responsibility of citizenship.

"Including the Constitution, which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights"

Added in 2021, this clause acknowledges Canada's commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It references Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, which protects Aboriginal and treaty rights.

"Fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen"

This includes: - Voting in elections - Obeying the law - Serving on a jury when called - Contributing to community life - Defending Canada if needed

How the Oath is Taken

1. The citizenship judge reads the oath line by line
2. Everyone in the room repeats each line together
3. The oath is read in both English and French
4. You can follow along on a printed card provided to you
5. The entire process takes about 5 minutes

How to Prepare

• Read the oath a few times before the ceremony — you don't need to memorize it, but familiarity helps
• Decide: swear or affirm — Know which you'll choose before you arrive
• Practice saying it aloud — Hearing yourself say the words makes the ceremony more meaningful
• Bring tissues — Many people find the moment more emotional than expected

History of the Oath

• Original (1947): Pledged allegiance to the King, with no mention of laws or duties
• 1977 update: Added "observe the laws of Canada and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen"
• 2021 update: Added recognition of Aboriginal and treaty rights (Bill C-8)
• Ongoing: The oath reflects Canada's evolving values and commitment to reconciliation

Common Questions About the Oath

Can I refuse to take the oath?

No — taking the oath is a legal requirement for citizenship. If you don't take the oath, you cannot become a Canadian citizen. There are no exemptions.

What if I make a mistake during the oath?

Don't worry — you're repeating after the judge in a group. If you stumble over a word, just continue. No one is graded on pronunciation or delivery.

Can I take the oath in my native language?

The oath must be taken in English or French (Canada's official languages). However, translations are often provided for reference so you understand what you're saying.