Australian Citizenship

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How to get Australian Citizenship?

Becoming an Australian citizen is the final and most exciting step in your migration journey. It represents a full commitment to Australia and, in return, grants you the complete rights and privileges of life in this country, including the ability to vote and travel on an Australian passport.

Citizenship at a Glance:

Main Pathways: By Conferral (for Permanent Residents) or By Descent (if born overseas to an Australian parent).
Key Step (Conferral): Pass the Citizenship Test & attend a Citizenship Ceremony.
Key Step (Descent): Provide proof of your parent’s citizenship at the time of your birth.
Status: Full Australian Citizenship for life.
Dual Citizenship: Australia allows dual citizenship, but you must check if your country of origin does too.
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Pathways to Citizenship

Most individuals become Australian citizens via two main pathways. The requirements are very different for each.

1. Australian Citizenship by Conferral (The General Pathway)

This is the most common pathway for Australian permanent residents who wish to become citizens. You must meet several key criteria at the time you apply.

Permanent Residency: You must be a holding a valid Australian permanent resident (PR) visa.
The General Residence Requirement: This is the most critical requirement. At the time you apply, you must have:
Lived in Australia on a valid visa for at least the last 4 years.
Held permanent residency for at least the last 12 months of that period.
Been outside Australia for no more than 12 months in total during those 4 years.
Been outside Australia for no more than 90 days in total during the 12 months before applying. Our team can calculate your exact eligibility date for you.
The Character Test: You must be of ‘good character’ if you are 18 or over. This is assessed based on your criminal records (if any), your honesty in dealings with the Australian government, and your associations.
The Australian Citizenship Test: Applicants aged 18 to 59 must sit and pass the Australian citizenship test. The test is designed to show you have:
A basic knowledge of the English language.
An adequate knowledge of Australia and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. (We can provide you with links to the official study materials to help you prepare.)
Intention to Reside: You must intend to reside in Australia or maintain a close and continuing link with Australia while overseas.

2. Australian Citizenship by Descent

This pathway is for individuals who were born outside Australia but are the child of an Australian citizen.

Key Eligibility Requirements: You may be eligible for citizenship by descent if:
You were born outside Australia on or after 26 January 1949.
At least one of your parents was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth.
You are of ‘good character’ (if you are 18 or over).
Application Notes: Unlike conferral, this pathway does not require you to meet a residence requirement or sit the citizenship test. The application is focused on proving your parent’s citizenship status at the time you were born.

The Australian Citizenship Application Process

How to Apply for Citizenship: A Step-by-Step Guide

Citizenship at a Glance:

Step 1 – Confirm Your Pathway & Eligibility: The first step is a professional assessment to confirm you meet the criteria for either Conferral (especially the strict residence calculation) or Descent.
Step 2 – Gather Your Identity Documents: You will need to gather a range of documents, including your passport, birth certificate, driver’s licence, proof of address, and any required overseas police checks.
Step 3 – Lodge Your Application Online: Your application is lodged online via your ImmiAccount. You must upload all supporting documents and pay the government application fee.
Step 4 – The Citizenship Test & Interview (Conferral Only): After lodging, you will be invited to an appointment at a Department of Home Affairs office. At this appointment, you will confirm your identity (the “interview”) and sit the 20-question multiple-choice citizenship test.
Step 5 – Receive Your Application Approval: Once the Department is satisfied you meet all criteria, you will receive a formal letter of approval.
Step 6 – The Citizenship Ceremony (Conferral Only): This is the final, celebratory step. You will be invited to attend a ceremony (usually run by your local council) to make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. You officially become an Australian citizen after you have made the pledge. (Note: Applicants for Citizenship by Descent receive their certificate by mail and do not attend a ceremony).
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Australian flag symbolising Australian citizenship and national pride in Visa Advisory Australia's citizenship guide

Citizenship Costs and Processing Times

Government Application Charges

Citizenship by Conferral (General): $575 AUD
Citizenship by Descent: $370 AUD

(Fees are subject to change by the Department and other concession fees may apply.)

To view our professional services fees click here

Processing Times

Processing times can vary significantly based on the volume of applications and the complexity of your case.

By Conferral: 90% of applications are processed from application to decision in 10 months.
By Descent: 90% of applications are processed in 6 months.
Ceremony: After approval, 90% of applicants will be invited to a ceremony within 5 months.

As processing times change monthly, we strongly recommend you check the Department’s official global processing times page (click here) for the most current estimates.

What Changes When You Become an Australian Citizen?

Becoming a citizen is a significant step that grants you new rights and also new responsibilities.

Your New Privileges as a Citizen

Travel on an Australian Passport: Gain visa-free access to over 180 countries.
Vote in Elections: You can (and must) vote in all local, state, and federal elections.
Work in Federal Government: Access jobs in the Australian Public Service or Defence Force.
Run for Parliament: You are eligible to be elected to public office.
Never Worry About Visa Cancellation: As a citizen, you have an automatic right of entry and can never be deported or have your “visa” cancelled.
Help Other Family: You can sponsor your partner or parents to migrate to Australia.

Your Responsibilities as a Citizen

Obey Australian laws.
Vote in all federal, state, and local elections and referendums.
Defend Australia should the need arise.
Serve on a jury if called to do so.

As processing times change monthly, we strongly recommend you check the Department’s official global processing times page for the most current estimates.

Ensure Your Citizenship Application is Smooth & Successful

While the citizenship application may seem straightforward on the surface, a simple mistake in calculating your residence period or an issue with the good character test can lead to refusal and the loss of your application fee. We are here to ensure a successful final step.

Our Citizenship Services include:

Full Residence Requirement Calculation: We provide a detailed calculation to confirm your exact eligibility date, accounting for all overseas travel.
Character Test Guidance: We provide expert advice on ‘good character’ matters and assist in gathering all necessary police checks.
Decision-Ready Application: We prepare and lodge a complete, error-free application for the fastest possible processing time.
Full Case Management: We manage all communication with the Department from lodgement to approval, leaving you free to plan your ceremony.
Book Your Discovery Call Today

Complete your migration journey with confidence. Talk to an expert today.

View from airplane window at sunset symbolising Visa Advisory Australia's smooth and reassuring citizenship application journey

Related Visas

Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa: The permanent visa for points-tested skilled workers.
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Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa: A permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by a state.
Learn More.
Subclasses 820/801 Partner (Onshore) Visas: Apply for a partner visa while you are in Australia.
Learn More.
Subclasses 309/100 Partner (Offshore) Visas: Apply for a partner visa from outside Australia.
Learn More.

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Disclaimer & Regulatory Information:
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Content on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal or migration advice. Australian migration law is subject to frequent change, and accessing this site or submitting an inquiry does not establish a migration agent-client relationship. For personalised guidance, please book a Discovery Call.

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