Hundreds of new Canadians were officially sworn in on Friday, at the largest ceremony ever held in Waterloo region

Waterloo region's largest citizenship ceremony saw 200 people take the oath of citizenship and receive their citizenship certificates on Friday.

The ceremony, which was hosted by the University of Waterloo, saw people from 44 different countries take the oath.

They were welcomed by Waterloo MP and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons Bardish Chagger and Judge Albert Wong.

"You have each made a personal decision to come to Canada and to become a Canadian citizen. It is a decision that is not taken lightly, as you have to make certain sacrifices, leaving behind family and friends to start a new life here," Wong told the crowd.

"I recognize the determination and hard work it took for each of you to be here today."