Australian Citizenship
Australian citizenship is a milestone that offers migrants a sense of belonging, security, and the ability to enjoy full rights and responsibilities that come with this privilege.
The Path to Australian Citizenship
Becoming a citizen is a formal commitment to Australia, unlocking rights such as voting, holding an Australian passport, and enjoying secure residency.
Australian citizenship is regarded by Home Affairs and the broader Australian government as one of the most significant milestones in a migrant’s journey. As a result, applications are assessed with the highest level of scrutiny.
Home Affairs carefully reviews each application, considering factors such as residence requirements, good character, successful completion of the citizenship test and intention to commit to and reside in Australia.
Contact us to discuss how Interstaff’s Registered Migration Agents assist with preparing Citizenship applications.
Australian Citizen Criteria
Australian Citizenship is granted:
- By conferral: Available to migrants through an application process.
- By birth: Born in Australia to at least one parent who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident at the time of the birth – no application is required.
- By descent: Born overseas to an Australian citizen parent – requires an application.
Citizenship by Conferral
Australian Citizenship by Conferral
Permanent Residence:
Hold permanent resident status (or be a New Zealand citizen with a Special Category Visa).
Residence Requirement:
- Lived in Australia lawfully for 4 years before applying.
- At least 12 months as a permanent resident.
- Must not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months total in the 4 year period, and no more than 90 days in the year prior to applying.
Good Character:
Applicants aged 18 and over must demonstrate good character, assessed through police checks and other records.
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Citizenship Test:
Most applicants aged 18–59 must pass the test, showing:
- Basic English skills
- Knowledge of Australian values, history, and responsibilities
- Understanding of the privileges of citizenship
Commitment to Australia:
Applicants must intend to live in Australia or maintain a close and continuing association with the country.
Citizenship by Descent
Australian Citizenship by Descent
Applicants must provide proof of the eligible parent’s citizenship at the time of birth.
Speak to Interstaff to understand how we assist with Australian Citizenship applications.
Securing Australian Citizenship with Confidence
Interstaff assist with the Australian Citizenship process by guiding applicants through eligibility checks, preparing and lodging applications, ensuring compliance with requirements, and providing support with the citizenship test.
Assess Eligibility
Confirm residency periods, permanent resident status, and good character requirements.
Advice on Requirements
This can include passports, visas, police checks, proof of residence and other documents.
Citizenship Test Support
Guidance for applicants aged 18–59 that are required to complete the citizenship test.
Manage Application
We lodge with a focus on accuracy to avoid delays and refusals.
Liaise with Home Affairs
We respond to Department requests for more information and track application progress.
Assist with Complex Cases
Advice on long absences, criminal records, residence test exemptions and family situations.
Speak to Interstaff about Australian Citizenship requirements.
Australian PR and Citizenship FAQs
Citizenship process times vary, but most applications take several months, assuming no government delays. Delays can also occur if documents are incomplete or further checks are required.
Yes, if you are aged 18–59 and applying by conferral. The test assesses English skills and knowledge of Australian values, history, and responsibilities. Applying for citizenship over 60 generally does not require a citizenship test.
You must have lived in Australia lawfully for 4 years, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident, with limited absences.
Yes, but absences must not exceed 12 months in total over the 4 year period and no more than 90 days in the final year unless an exemption applies.
Applicants aged 18 and over must demonstrate good character, assessed through police checks and other records. The character test for Australian citizenship is different to the character test for Australian visas.
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