Question 1

What is Form 1195 used for?

Accepted Answer

Form 1195 is the Identity declaration. It verifies your identity when you apply online for Australian citizenship by descent or for evidence of Australian citizenship — neither can be approved until identity is verified. It is not a student guardian form, despite a mislabel that circulates online.

Question 2

Who can sign or witness Form 1195?

Accepted Answer

An endorser who is an Australian citizen, has known you for at least one year, is currently working in an occupation listed on the form, is not related to you by birth, marriage or de facto relationship, and is easy to contact by telephone. That person completes Questions 2 and 3 and endorses your photograph. If you are unsure whether your endorser qualifies, get advice before they sign.

Question 3

Do I need Form 1195 for citizenship by descent or conferral?

Accepted Answer

For an online citizenship by descent (or evidence of citizenship) application, yes — it is the identity declaration for that pathway. For citizenship by conferral, it is generally not part of the standard online application unless the Department specifically requests it.

Question 4

How recent does the photograph have to be?

Accepted Answer

No more than six months old. It must be a passport-sized colour photograph (35–40mm wide, 45–50mm high) showing your full face against a neutral or light grey background, unedited, with glasses removed unless medically necessary. The endorser signs across a bottom corner of the front without covering your face.

Question 5

Can Form 1195 be completed for a newborn?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a child, including a newborn, can be the subject of an Identity declaration, for example in a descent application. The same photograph standard and eligible-endorser rules apply. The practical hurdles are the photo standard and finding an unrelated eligible endorser who has known the child long enough; if that is difficult, get advice before lodging.

Form 1195: The Identity Declaration

What is Form 1195 used for?