Citizenship Ceremonies

Two people holding an Australian flag and citizenship certificate

Council conducts Citizenship Ceremonies for residents of the Ryde local government area who have been granted Citizenship. 

Citizenship ceremonies fulfil legal requirements prescribed by the Australian Citizenship Act 2007 and the Australian Citizenship Regulations 2007. Ceremonies are conducted under the authority of the Australian Government minister responsible for Citizenship matters.

2024 Ceremony Dates*

  • Thursday, 7 March 2024
  • Thursday, 11 April 2024
  • Thursday, 9 May 2024
  • Thursday, 13 June 2024
  • Thursday, 11 July 2024
  • Thursday, 29 August 2024
  • Thursday, 14 November 2024

*Ceremony dates are subject to change.

Frequently asked Questions

How can I apply for citizenship?

Council is only responsible for hosting citizenship ceremonies and has no involvement in applications, approvals or certifications. Information on applying for citizenship can be obtained from the Citizenship website or by contacting the Citizenship Line on 131 880.

I have been granted citizenship, when will my citizenship ceremony take place?

Once the Department of Home Affairs has sent you a letter granting you citizenship, they will send you an invitation informing you of when and where your citizenship ceremony will take place.

Until a Pledge List is received from the Department of Home Affairs for the upcoming ceremony, Council has no prior knowledge of a candidates' details or what ceremony they are to be included in. Typically, this takes place 4 weeks prior to each ceremony.
Please be aware that there is a waiting list for candidates to attend a citizenship ceremony.

This list is followed in a fair and orderly manner so that candidates can take their pledge as soon as possible. Altering a candidate’s position on the waiting list is only possible in extreme circumstances. Candidates who believe that they may require special consideration when being placed for ceremony should contact the Department of Home Affairs on 131 880.

What if I cannot attend the ceremony?

Please let the Department of Home Affairs know if you cannot attend your citizenship ceremony on 131 880.

You do not need to notify Council if you will not be able to attend the ceremony.

What do I need to bring to the ceremony?

You will need to bring photo identification as well as your invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.

How long does the ceremony go for?

The ceremony runs for approximately one hour.

Can my family and friends attend the ceremony?

Unfortunately due to current COVID-19 restrictions guest numbers may vary depending on health guidelines at that time. Please look at your invitation's ‘special instructions’ to confirm the number of guests you're allowed to invite. This does not include dependents. Please contact events@ryde.nsw.au to request additional dependents.

Can I take photographs?

Yes, you may take photos throughout your citizenship ceremony. A professional photographer will also be taking photos throughout the ceremony which will be sent to you via a Dropbox link the day after your ceremony.