When a Canadian permanent resident becomes a new citizen of Canada through the naturalization process, a ceremony is held to celebrate this special occasion.
In 2024, 375,099 permanent residents were granted Canadian citizenship and in the first six months of 2025, over 150,000 permanent residents became new citizens of Canada.
Canada Day Citizenship Ceremonies
Several Canadian citizenship ceremonies took place on July 1, 2025, which is the Canada Day national holiday.
At a ceremony that occurred in Calgary, Alberta, 73 immigrants from 24 countries received a warm welcome as new citizens of Canada in the presence of government officials, family and friends.
Officiating at the Canadian citizenship ceremony in Calgary was Lt. Colonel Carolyn Patton, who declared to the new citizens, “Canada is stronger, Canada is richer and more vibrant because of the many cultures, new stories and experiences that bring each of you together. As you take this important step, know you’re now a part of a national family built on respect and equality.”
One of the new Canadian citizens, originally from India, said at the Calgary ceremony that he immigrated to Canada, because it is a “land of opportunities” and he desired a better life for himself and his family, while also noting the amazing kindness of the Canadian people.
In Thunder Bay, Ontario, 50 immigrants originating from 15 countries took the Oath of Allegiance to become new citizens of Canada, including an immigrant from The Philippines who said the process was worth it and that Canada offered her children a better life.
Thirty immigrants from 12 countries were given Canadian citizenship at a ceremony in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Speaking at the Winnipeg ceremony was a Member of Parliament, Doug Eyolfson, who told the new Canadian citizens, “You are now officially citizens of the greatest country in the world” and further telling them, “We have a nation that is built on tolerance and inclusivity. We’re a society that helps each other.”
These are just three examples of the many Canadian citizenship ceremonies that were recently hosted in different communities across Canada, but they help to illustrate the warm welcome that is given to immigrants and the happiness that immigrants feel when they become Canadian citizens.
Canadian Citizenship Requirements
In order to become a Canadian citizen, an immigrant must generally:
- live in Canada as a permanent resident for a minimum of three years (1,095 days) in the five-year period prior to applying;
- demonstrate adequate English or French language proficiency (if 18-54 years of age);
- file income tax in Canada for a minimum of three years during the five years prior to applying (if required);
- pass the citizenship test, which asks questions about Canadian history, symbols, laws, geography, government, economy, as well as the responsibilities and rights that citizens of Canada possess;
- pass an interview (this sometimes occurs on a case-by-case basis);
- pay the Canadian citizenship processing fee and the right of citizenship fee;
- not have committed a crime inside or outside of Canada;
- take the Oath of Allegiance at a Canadian citizenship ceremony.
Benefits of Canadian Citizenship
In addition to the many benefits that Canadian permanent residents receive (for example, live, work and study in Canada long-term; sponsor family members for a Canadian visa; receive free public healthcare; start a business and/or buy a home in Canada; access quality education programs; etc.), a citizen of Canada can also:
- apply for a Canadian passport
- travel outside of Canada for long periods of time
- vote in elections
- run for government office
- work in government jobs that require Canadian citizenship (if qualified)
Conclusion
To become a Canadian citizen is a special event in the life of an immigrant and his or her family and friends.
Canadian citizenship is also important to the local community, which often attends the celebration to show their support, and to this immigrant-friendly country as a whole.
Canada is a diverse country in which 23% of the population is foreign-born and it was the first country to have an official government policy embracing multiculturalism.
Thus, immigrants can feel at home living in Canada, knowing that they are valued as human beings, their skills are wanted to help contribute to the country, and they have many opportunities for a better life.
If you would like to become a Canadian citizen, the first step is to become a permanent resident of Canada.
Canadian Visa Expert works with a team of authorized immigration consultants who can evaluate your eligibility for immigration to Canada as a skilled foreign worker and guide you through each step of the application process if you qualify.
The goal of Canadian Visa Expert is to simplify the process of immigration to Canada for you and your family, so that your forms will be filed correctly and efficiently, giving you the best opportunity for a positive outcome.
To apply for your Eligibility Assessment, click here!
