How to Become an Australian Citizen: A Comprehensive Guide
Becoming an Australian citizen is a significant milestone for those who have made Australia their home. Whether you have been or are considered a permanent resident of Australia, and you are planning to apply for citizenship, understanding the requirements and the process is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Australian citizenship, including the eligibility criteria, how long it takes, and when you can apply.
What Does It Mean to Be an Australian Citizen?
Being an Australian citizen, you are offered numerous benefits, such as the right to vote, access to government services, and the ability to obtain an Australian passport. It also comes with responsibilities, such as obeying Australian laws and serving on a jury when required. Unlike permanent residency, which allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely, citizenship provides full legal rights and integration into the nation.
Eligibility Requirements for Australian Citizenship
To become an Australian citizen, you must meet eligibility criteria such as:
- Permanent Residency Status: You must hold permanent residency status in Australia for at least one year. This is the first and most crucial step toward citizenship.
- Continuous Residence: You need to have lived in Australia for at least four years before applying for citizenship, with at least 12 months as a permanent resident.
- Good Character: Applicants must demonstrate good character, which typically involves passing a background check. Individuals with serious criminal records may be ineligible for citizenship.
- Language and Knowledge Requirements: You may need to pass a citizenship test to demonstrate your understanding of Australian society, values, and history. This test is generally for applicants aged between 18 and 59.
How Long Does It Take to Get Australian Citizenship?
The time it takes to transition from permanent residency to citizenship can vary, but generally, you must wait four years from the time you become a permanent resident before applying for citizenship. After submitting your application, the processing time can range from several months to over a year, depending on factors like the completeness of your application and the demand for citizenship services at the time.
When Can You Apply for Australian Citizenship?
You can apply for Australian citizenship once you have met the residency requirement. This means that after living in Australia for four years, you can submit your application. However, it’s important to note that you must have been a permanent resident for at least 12 months before applying. If you have been outside of Australia for extended periods, this may affect your eligibility, as the time spent abroad may not count toward your residence requirement.
Special Cases: Citizenship for Children and Special Applicants
- Citizenship for Children: Children born in Australia or to Australian citizens may automatically acquire citizenship. However, children born overseas may need to meet specific criteria, including residency requirements or parental citizenship status.
- Applicants Over 60: Individuals over 60 may be exempt from taking the citizenship test but still need to meet other requirements, such as residency and good character.
- Special Circumstances: If you are a refugee or humanitarian entrant, the requirements for citizenship may differ slightly. These applicants may have different pathways to citizenship based on their specific circumstances.
The Citizenship Application Process
The application process for Australian citizenship involves several key steps:
- Prepare Your Documents: Ensure that you have all the necessary documents, including proof of your permanent residency status, identification, and evidence of your residence in Australia.
- Complete the Application: You can apply online or submit a paper application. The application will ask for personal details, your residency history, and other information related to your eligibility.
- Take the Citizenship Test: If required, you will need to pass the citizenship test. The test covers topics such as Australian history, values, and government.
- Wait for a Decision: Once your application is submitted, it will be processed. If your application is successful, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony.
- Citizenship Ceremony: After your application is approved, you will attend a ceremony where you will take the citizenship pledge and officially become an Australian citizen.
How to Improve Your Chances of Success
To improve your chances of a successful citizenship application, follow these tips:
- Ensure Accuracy: Double-check all the information in your application. Mistakes or omissions can delay the process.
- Meet Residency Requirements: Ensure that you have lived in Australia for the required period and that you have no significant breaks in your residence. Short trips abroad are generally acceptable, but long stays outside Australia may affect your eligibility.
- Prepare for the Test: If you are required to take the citizenship test, study the official materials to ensure you are well-prepared.
What Happens After You Apply for Citizenship?
After you submit your application, you will receive confirmation of receipt. If required, you may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional documentation. Once your application is processed, you will be notified of the decision. If successful, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony where you will officially become an Australian citizen.
Conclusion
Becoming an Australian citizen is a significant and rewarding step for those who have made Australia their home. By understanding the eligibility criteria, residency requirements, and the application process, you can navigate the journey to citizenship with confidence. Whether you’re just starting your application or looking for more information on how to meet the residency requirements, this guide provides the essential details to help you achieve your goal of becoming an Australian citizen.
For more information, contact us for guidance specific to your case.
View Comments
Hi Nilesh,
I spent two years from Jan 2018 to Jan 2020 in Australia on subclass 500. I moved overseas in Jan 2020 and finally returned back to Australia in Mar 2023 on 190. Can I ask when I would be eligible for Citizenship application? Thanks
Hi Nilesh
Does my time on my 400 visa and 408 visa counted on my 2years requirement to apply for a permanent residency? i just got my 482 visa last january 2024 it says that i need 2 years to apply for a permanent residency
Dear Patrick,
Thank you for your question.
Unfortunately, the time spent on your 400 and 408 visas does not count towards the two-year requirement for applying for permanent residency under the 482 visa pathway. The two-year period generally starts from the time you were granted your 482 visa in January 2024. You will need to complete two years under this visa before becoming eligible to apply for permanent residency.
If you’d like more detailed advice specific to your case, feel free to book a chat with me. We can review your situation and discuss your pathway to permanent residency. You can book an appointment here: MyVisa/appointment.
Regards,
Nilesh
Immigration Lawyer & Special Counsel
MyVisa® Immigration Law Advisory
http://myvisa.com.au
I just pass the citizenship test.
Then my pr expired on 25june.
I am going travel 24/june-3july.
Do I need to apply any visa .or it will grant my bridging visa?
Dear Ting,
Apologies for the delay in responding. While this reply may no longer assist with your specific travel dates, I hope it will be helpful for others in a similar situation.
Since your PR expired during your travel period, it would have been necessary to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to re-enter Australia, as bridging visas do not typically cover such circumstances. If you encountered any issues or still have concerns regarding your visa status, feel free to reach out for assistance.
You can always book a chat with me here: MyVisa/appointment.
In the interest of speed, my communications are transcribed and transmitted using voice-to-text software – please ignore any unintended typographical or interpretation errors. Please also see the standard Notes and Disclosures which apply to my communications. These are located at the footer of my work emails.
Regards,
Nilesh
Immigration Lawyer & Special Counsel
MyVisa® Immigration Law Advisory
http://myvisa.com.au
I got my citizenship last year. My son just recently got his PR when can I apply him to be citizen he is 13 yrs old.
Dear Kim,
Apologies for the delayed response, but I hope this answer is helpful to you or to others in a similar situation.
Since your son is now a permanent resident and you have already obtained your Australian citizenship, you can apply for his citizenship as soon as he meets the eligibility criteria. For children under 16 years of age, the citizenship application can be made on their behalf by a responsible parent. There is no minimum residency period required for children in these circumstances, as long as they are permanent residents and the parent is an Australian citizen.
You can proceed with his application for citizenship at this time.
If you have any further questions or need assistance with the application, feel free to reach out or book a chat with me here: MyVisa/appointment.
In the interest of speed, my communications are transcribed and transmitted using voice-to-text software – please ignore any unintended typographical or interpretation errors. Please also see the standard Notes and Disclosures which apply to my communications. These are located at the footer of my work emails.
Best regards,
Nilesh Nandan
Immigration Lawyer & Special Counsel
MyVisa® Immigration Law Advisory
http://myvisa.com.au
If i was on a Bridging Visa E (WE-050) since 23 March 2015. And just got PR on 19 March 2024. When could I apply for citizenship?
Dear Sasi,
Apologies for the delayed response, but I hope this information will help you or others in similar situations.
To apply for Australian citizenship, you generally need to meet the residency requirements. This includes:
1. Having been lawfully present in Australia for at least four years immediately before applying, and
2. Having been a permanent resident for at least 12 months before applying.
Since you were granted permanent residency on 19 March 2024, you would likely be eligible to apply for citizenship on 19 March 2025, provided that your total time in Australia meets the four-year requirement and you meet all other criteria, including good character requirements.
If you would like more detailed guidance on your citizenship eligibility or the application process, feel free to reach out or book a chat with me here: MyVisa/appointment.
In the interest of speed, my communications are transcribed and transmitted using voice-to-text software – please ignore any unintended typographical or interpretation errors. Please also see the standard Notes and Disclosures which apply to my communications. These are located at the footer of my work emails.
Best regards,
Nilesh Nandan
Immigration Lawyer & Special Counsel
MyVisa® Immigration Law Advisory
http://myvisa.com.au
Hi Nilesh,
My family is eligible to apply for Australian citizenship. My 18 year daughter needs to submit the 1300t form or the 1290 form as her application. A little confused over the information on the website.
Thank you
Thank you very much for your post and your patience. Here are the first three (3) things that come to my mind. There may also be other important issues that arise from your particular circumstances. Please seek specific immigration law advice before taking any further steps.
Fiurstly you will need to fill out form 1300T, which is for applicants aged 18 and above.
Secondly, note the eligibility for applicants filling out form 1300T (attached) is:
-are aged 18 years or over and under 60
-are a migrant who is a permanent resident
-satisfy the residence requirement
-are likely to reside, or to continue to reside, in Australia or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia, and
are of good character.
Thirdly, Form 1290 (attached) is for people who:
-are aged 60 and over, or
-have a permanent or enduring physical or mental incapacity and are therefore not capable of sitting the Australian citizenship test, or
-have a permanent loss or substantial impairment of hearing, speech or sight that prevents you from sitting the Australian citizenship test.
For greater clarity about your immigration issue you can book in a quick 10-minute-chat with me here: https://myvisa.com.au/10-Minute
Regards Nilesh Nandan Immigration Lawyer & Special Counsel MyVisa® Immigration Law Advisory http://myvisa.com.au/
*In the interest of speed, my communications are transcribed and transmitted using voice-to-text software – please ignore any unintended typographical or interpretation errors. Please also see the standard Notes and Disclosures which apply to my communications. These are located at the footer of my work emails.
Hi,
I have been in Australia since 1974 , I am 60 years of age still working , is is true its easier for people like me to become an Australian citizen ?
We have been here 50 years next year we would like to do it as a family we have been told its much more achievable and less expensive as we have been here so long , is that correct ?
Hi. My husband is working here in Australia. I just arrived here on 27th of October 2022 and we got our Permanent Residency in September 2023. Can I apply for Citizenship together with my husband? Or do I need to stay for atleast 5years before I apply for citizenship?
Hi
I am a Thai, I got married with my husband Australian 15 years ago, I received my PR 7 years ago.
Now I hold Residence return subclass(155)
How can I apply Australian citizenship.
How long I have to stay in Australia before apply Australian Citizenship.
I will appreciate if you can advise more details.