What a host does
Hosts work closely with us to help plan in-person or virtual citizenship ceremonies. However, IRCC remains responsible for the overall organization of the ceremony.
Hosting can be different for every group. Some hosts take part in all aspects of the ceremony, while others choose limited involvement. IRCC will discuss ceremony details with the host that will be outlined in a hosting agreement signed by both parties.
On this page
Expenses
- Hosts may cover some or all costs related to the ceremony.
- IRCC generally doesn’t provide funding for ceremony elements such as venue rentals, guest speakers, performers, national anthem singers, audiovisual equipment or the ceremony reception.
- Hosts are welcome to partner with local organizations or businesses to help cover expenses. Get more information on working with sponsors.
Activities
In-person ceremonies
For in-person ceremonies, a host can
- work closely with us on
- planning, setup and presentation
- the organization of the ceremony and the reception, if applicable
- give congratulatory remarks
- recommend special guest speakers and performers
- choose to cover costs for
- venue rental
- guest participation fees, if applicable
- audiovisual equipment
- reception (light refreshments, non-alcoholic beverages)
- other related expenses, such as transportation and gifts
Virtual ceremonies
For virtual ceremonies, a host can
- give congratulatory remarks
- suggest special guest speakers and performers
- cover the guest participation fees, if applicable
Congratulatory remarks
A host representative may offer congratulatory remarks during the ceremony either
- as the 3rd speaker (if fewer than 3 speakers)
- remarks follow the oath and other speakers
- time limit: up to 2 minutes (unilingual remarks) or up to 3 minutes (bilingual)
- as the 4th speaker (if there are 3 speakers)
- remarks are delivered before the oath
- time limit: 30 seconds
The number of speakers and length of speeches may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each ceremony.