​​Citizenship by Conferral

 

This is the most common pathway to Australian citizenship and is intended for permanent residents who have lawfully lived in Australia for a qualifying period.

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Eligibility includes:

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• Being a permanent resident at the time of application and approval

• Meeting the residency requirement

• Passing the citizenship test (if aged 18–59)

• Demonstrating good character

• Intending to live in or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia

 

This pathway applies to most migrants holding permanent visas.

 

Citizenship by Descent

 

If you were born overseas to an Australian citizen parent, you may be eligible for citizenship by descent.

 

Key criteria:

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• You were born outside Australia

• One or both of your parents were Australian citizens at the time of your birth

• You provide evidence of your parent’s Australian citizenship and your relationship to them

 

This stream allows eligible applicants to become Australian citizens without meeting residency requirements.

 

Citizenship by Adoption

 

This applies to children adopted outside Australia by Australian citizen parents, where the adoption is recognised under Australian law.

 

You may be eligible if:

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• You were adopted through an eligible process

• At least one adoptive parent is an Australian citizen

 

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Steps in the Australian Citizenship Application Process

 

Below is a general overview of what to expect when applying for Australian citizenship. Speak to your Registered Migration Agent about what the process will look like for your particular circumstances.

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1. Check Eligibility

 

Determine the most appropriate stream for your circumstances and ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, including residency, character and more.

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2. Prepare Documentation

 

Gather all required documents to evidence how you meet each of the relevant requirements. As Registered Migration Agents, we guide you on what documents to provide, which ones need to be certified and how to address any particular concerns. Where required, we will also provide a detailed submission to the Department addressing any points of concern and strengthening your application.

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3. Lodge Your Application

 

Applications are submitted online to the Department of Home Affairs. Fees vary depending on the stream you are applying for. A Registered Migration Agent can ensure accuracy and completeness before submission, and provide valuable support and guidance during each step of the citizenship process.

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4. Attend the Citizenship Appointment / Test

 

If applying by conferral and aged 18–59, you will be invited to sit the Australian citizenship test, which assesses your knowledge of Australian values, history, and responsibilities. If you do not sit the test, you may still be asked to attend an interview to confirm your identity.

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5. Receive a Decision

 

After your application is assessed, the Department will notify you of the outcome. Processing times vary depending on the stream and individual circumstances. You are not an Australian citizen until you attend a citizenship ceremony.

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6. Attend the Citizenship Ceremony

 

If your application is approved, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony, where you take the Australian Citizenship Pledge – this is the final step to becoming an Australian citizen.

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This is a general overview of eligibility criteria. Other eligibility criteria may apply depending on your individual circumstances. We recommend that you seek the advice and support of a Registered Migration Agent.​​​​​​​​​​