Understanding the Australian Citizenship Application Process
Applying for Australian citizenship is a significant step towards becoming a full member of the Australian community. This guide provides detailed information on eligibility criteria, application steps, and tips to enhance your chances of success.
Eligibility Criteria for Australian Citizenship
To be eligible for Australian citizenship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Permanent Residency: Hold permanent residency status in Australia for at least one year.
Continuous Residence: Have lived in Australia for at least four years before applying, with no more than 12 months spent outside Australia during this period, and no more than 90 days in the 12 months immediately before applying.
Good Character: Demonstrate good character, typically assessed through background checks.
Language and Knowledge Requirements: Pass a citizenship test to demonstrate understanding of Australian society, values, and history.
Application Process for Australian Citizenship
Prepare Your Documents: Gather necessary documents, including proof of permanent residency, identification, and evidence of residence in Australia.
Complete the Application: Apply online through the ImmiAccount or submit a paper application.
Citizenship Test: If required, pass the citizenship test, which assesses knowledge of Australia and English language skills.
Wait for a Decision: Processing times vary; ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
Citizenship Ceremony: Upon approval, attend a ceremony to make the citizenship pledge.Immigration and citizenship Website
Tips to Improve Your Application Success
Ensure Accuracy: Double-check all information in your application.
Meet Residency Requirements: Use the Residence Calculator to confirm eligibility.
Prepare for the Test: Study the official materials, such as the Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond.
Special Cases in Australian Citizenship
Children: Children born in Australia or to Australian citizens may automatically acquire citizenship.
Applicants Over 60: May be exempt from the citizenship test but must meet other requirements.
Special Circumstances: Refugees or humanitarian entrants may have different pathways to citizenship.
What Happens After Applying?
After submitting your application, you will receive confirmation of receipt. You may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional documentation. Once processed, you will be notified of the decision and, if successful, invited to a citizenship ceremony.
FAQs:
Q1: How long does it take to process an Australian citizenship application?
A: Processing times vary but generally range from several months to over a year, depending on individual circumstances.
Q2: What is the citizenship test pass mark?
A: Applicants must score at least 75% and answer all five Australian values questions correctly.
Q3: Can I apply for citizenship if I have a criminal record?
A: Applicants must be of good character; serious criminal records may affect eligibility.
Q4: Are there exemptions to the citizenship test?
A: Yes, applicants over 60 or with certain impairments may be exempt but must meet other requirements.
Q5: How can I prepare for the citizenship test?
A: Study the official booklet Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond and take practice tests.
Q6: What if I fail the citizenship test?
A: Applicants have multiple opportunities to retake the test if they do not pass on the first attempt.
92 Responses
Test
Hi I have a question can I apply for Australian citizenship as PR after 2 years is there any exception or a way to fastre the process and not to wait 4 years
Hi Bash
Thank you for posting. I have created a page of useful tools including calculators which may be of interest to you here.
There is no apparent reason why you could FastTrack the approval process for Australian citizenship.
Regards, Nilesh Nandan, Immigration Lawyer, Special Counsel, MyVisa® Immigration Law Advisory, myvisa.com.au/ 1300558472
I’m an Australian citizen an I with like to apply for my children’s citizenship and they were born outside Australia so how do I apply for my children’s citizenship
This is glistening! You’re awesome! I don’t believe I’ve ever read anything like that before. It’s wonderful to find someone who has genuine thoughts on this subject. Really, thank you for starting this. This website is exactly what the internet needs: someone with some originality!
Hi,
would you please advise me if I am eligible to apply for the citizenship of Australia?
Visa Class : Skill- 190
– Visa Grant Date : 3/10/2014
– First Entry : 15/8/2015 stayed in Australia for two weeks and then stayed away till second entry
– Second Entry : 10/9/2019 – continue ( Staying in Australia over this period without being away )
Hi Nilesh,
do you have to maintain a visa for the full 4 years period? What if you leave Australia after 3 years for a limited time (1-3 month) because your visa had expired and then come back with a new visa. Is the 4 year period start from the beginning when you return or can you still claim the first 3 years as long as you haven’t been away for more than 12 month in total?
Hi there,
May I respectfully ask for my eligibility on my citizenship application as many said I am eligible and some also said I am not yet.
I am now Australian PR subclass 100 which applied offshore and granted from 01/10/2019 and I understand that I have to complete 4 years before applying for citizenship.
Unfortunately, I didn’t come to Australia since the grant date, I came on the 21/06/2020 which my PR should start the 4 years scheme from that date, so I may be able to apply for my citizenship application on 21/06/2024.
However, I stayed in Australia on my student Visa on 02/06/2014 – 20/04/2016. Will this length of time be counted on my citizenship application?
I am greatly appreciate on your kindness of answer in advance.
Warmest Regards
Piri