Become an Australian citizen

Navigating Australian Citizenship: Requirements and Procedures

Dreaming of making Australia your forever home?

Here's a detailed roadmap to achieving Australian citizenship, outlining pathways, criteria, and recent updates:

Pathways to Citizenship:

• By Birth: If you're born in Australia to at least one Australian citizen or permanent resident parent.
• By Descent: If you're born overseas to an Australian citizen parent, you may be granted citizenship by descent.
• By Grant (Conferral): Non-citizens can apply for citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

Citizenship by Conferral

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible, you must be a Permanent resident and have resided in Australia for at least four years.

You must have held Permanent residency for at least 12 months, lawfully resided in Australia for the last four years, and maintained a close connection with the country. You must only have spent limited time outside Australia (not exceeding one year in the last four years).

Applicants over 18 must demonstrate good character.

Note that some exemptions apply and you  may qualify for variations to the residence requirement or special considerations.

Application Process

You must submit your citizenship application with the required documents. There is a Citizenship Test whereby you must attend an appointment for the citizenship test, covering Australian values, history, and government.

Then you upon approval, you are invited to attend a citizenship ceremony and take the Australian Citizenship Pledge.

Fee and Recent Changes:

The application Fee as of July 1, 2023, the fee for citizenship by conferral is AU$540.

Since July 1, 2023, New Zealand citizens living in Australia for four years or more can apply directly for citizenship without needing a permanent visa.

Responsibilities and Privileges

Citizens enjoy rights and privileges like voting, working in public service or defense, and obtaining an Australian passport. Citizenship also comes with responsibilities: citizens must uphold Australian laws, respect democratic beliefs, and fulfill civic duties like jury service.

Appeal and Refusal

Applicants can appeal refusals based on specific criteria, such as identity verification or character concerns.

Keep updated!

Keep an eye on updates and changes in citizenship regulations to ensure compliance and smooth processing.
Becoming an Australian citizen is a significant step, offering a sense of belonging and opportunities to contribute to the vibrant Australian community. So, if you're ready to embrace the Aussie way of life, dive into the citizenship process and make your Australian dream a reality!