Form 1300t — Application for Australian Citizenship
Age: You must be aged 18 years or over and under 60 at the time of application. Different forms apply to children under 18 and applicants aged 60 or over.
Permanent residency: You must be a permanent resident of Australia at the time of application.
Residence requirement: You must have been lawfully present in Australia for at least 4 years immediately before applying, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident. You must not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total during those 4 years, and not more than 90 days in the 12 months immediately before applying.
Intention to reside: You must be likely to reside, or continue to reside, in Australia or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia.
Good character: You must be of good character. The Department assesses this having regard to your criminal history, associations, and general conduct.
Citizenship test: Applicants aged 18 to 59 must pass the Australian citizenship test before their application can be approved. The test covers Australian values, history, and government.
Common mistakes
Incorrect residence calculation: The residence requirement is calculated precisely. Applicants frequently miscalculate their absences or count time spent on temporary visas. An error here will result in refusal.
Not being in Australia when the decision is made: You must be in Australia when the Department makes a decision on your application, except in limited circumstances. If you travel overseas during processing and the Department makes a decision while you are away, the application may be refused.
Character issues not addressed: Any criminal history must be disclosed and, where relevant, addressed with supporting submissions and evidence. Failing to disclose is a ground for refusal and may constitute fraud.
Using an outdated form: The Department periodically updates Form 1300t. Always download the current version from the Department of Home Affairs website.
Incomplete supporting documents: The application requires certified copies of identity documents, evidence of permanent residency, and other supporting material. Incomplete applications are returned or refused.
Questions and answers
What is Form 1300t used for?
Form 1300t is the paper application form for Australian citizenship by conferral under the general eligibility criteria. It is used by adults aged 18 to 59 who meet the residency and eligibility requirements. The Department of Home Affairs strongly prefers online applications via ImmiAccount, but paper applications using Form 1300t are still accepted.
Can I apply for citizenship online instead of using Form 1300t?
Yes. The Department of Home Affairs strongly encourages online applications through ImmiAccount. Online applications are processed faster and the system guides you through the requirements. Form 1300t is the paper alternative for those who cannot or prefer not to apply online.
How long does citizenship by conferral take to process?
Processing times vary significantly depending on the volume of applications, whether additional information is requested, and individual circumstances. As a general guide, processing can take anywhere from several months to over a year. The Department publishes current processing times on its website.
Can I include my children in my Form 1300t application?
Children under 16 can be included on a responsible parent's citizenship application at no additional cost. Children aged 16 or 17 can apply in their own right. If both parents are applying for citizenship, children under 16 should be included on one parent's application only.
What is the citizenship test and how do I prepare?
The Australian citizenship test is a computer-based test of 20 questions covering Australian values, history, government, and the responsibilities of citizenship. You must answer at least 15 questions correctly to pass. The Department provides an official resource book — 'Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond' — which contains all the information needed for the test.
What happens at the citizenship ceremony?
Once your application is approved, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony where you will make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. Ceremonies are typically conducted by local councils. You become an Australian citizen at the moment you make the pledge, not when your application is approved.
Can I apply if I have a criminal history?
A criminal history does not automatically disqualify you from citizenship, but it must be disclosed and will be assessed as part of the good character requirement. The nature, seriousness, and recency of the offending, evidence of rehabilitation, and other factors are all considered. I strongly recommend seeking legal advice if you have any criminal history before applying.