Australian Citizenship
Australian citizenship is the final step for many permanent residents. Home Affairs sets out three main categories: citizenship by conferral, by descent and by adoption. Most of our citizenship work is by conferral or by descent. We work out which category is yours, then prepare the evidence with care before you lodge.
Citizenship is the final step for many permanent residents. Home Affairs lists three categories: conferral, descent and adoption, and conferral and descent are the ones we most often assist with. Each looks at different evidence, and small gaps in the record can cause delays. We choose the right category first and prepare the evidence before you lodge.
- CategoriesConferral, descent, adoption
- Looks atResidence, identity, character
- TestCitizenship test, for most adults
- FinishCeremony and pledge
The three categories of Australian citizenship
Home Affairs groups the ways to become an Australian citizen into three categories. Conferral and descent are the most common, and they are the pathways we most often assist clients with.
- By conferralThe general category for permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens, who have lived in Australia for the required period and meet the character and other requirements. This is the pathway we assist with most.
- By descentFor people born overseas to a parent who was an Australian citizen at the time of their birth. We regularly help families with the evidence this pathway needs.
- By adoptionFor children adopted by an Australian citizen under an eligible adoption arrangement.
Other ways to become an Australian citizen
Home Affairs also provides for other situations. These are less common for us, so contact us and we will tell you whether we can help.
- Resuming citizenshipFor former Australian citizens who lost or gave up their citizenship and want it back.
- Born to a former Australian citizenFor people born overseas to a parent who had earlier lost or given up their Australian citizenship.
- ChildrenChildren can apply in their own right or with a parent. The rules depend on their age and circumstances.
- Born in AustraliaFor people born in Australia who are stateless, and for people born in Papua before 1975.
- People aged 60 and over, or with an incapacity or impairmentSome requirements differ for older applicants and for people with an incapacity or impairment.
- Evidence of citizenshipProof that you are already a citizen, or a replacement for a lost or damaged certificate.
Overview
Home Affairs sets out three main categories of Australian citizenship: by conferral, by descent and by adoption. Conferral and descent are the most common.
- The department looks at your residence, identity and character, so a small gap in the record can cause delay.
- We check your eligibility first and prepare the evidence before you lodge.
Who this suits
Permanent residents and eligible New Zealand citizens considering citizenship by conferral
People born overseas to an Australian citizen parent, applying by descent
Families applying together, including children
Anyone unsure which category applies to them
Key facts
- Three categories: conferral, descent and adoption
- Conferral and descent are the most common, and the ones we most often assist with
- Each category asks for different evidence, so choosing the right one comes first
- Most adult applicants for conferral sit the citizenship test
- The process ends with a citizenship ceremony and pledge
Government application fees
Citizenship by conferral (form 1300t)
Main applicant$595
A concession fee of $85 applies to Pensioner Concession Card holders. Children under 16 on the same form as a responsible parent pay nothing.
Citizenship by descent (form 118)
Main applicant$380
$160 for the second and each later sibling applying at the same time.
Citizenship for a child adopted under the Hague Convention or a bilateral arrangement (form 1272)
Main applicant$380
$160 for the second and each later sibling applying at the same time.
Other situations (form 1290)
Main applicant$365
A concession fee of $40 applies to Pensioner Concession Card holders.
Resuming citizenship (form 132)
Main applicant$255
Evidence of citizenship (form 119)
Main applicant$290
These are the Department of Home Affairs citizenship application fees. They are indexed each 1 July, so confirm the current amount with the Department before you lodge. A card payment surcharge may apply. Our professional fees are separate.
What you need to qualify
- By conferral: permanent residence, enough lawful residence in Australia, and an intention to keep living here.
- Good character, shown through the checks and any declarations you make.
- For most adults, a pass in the citizenship test and the English and knowledge of Australia that goes with it.
- By descent: a parent who was an Australian citizen when you were born, with evidence of that link and of your identity.
- By adoption, resumption or for a child born in Australia: the specific links and evidence each route asks for, which we confirm with you first.
The citizenship process
- 01Eligibility check
- 02Gather identity and residence evidence
- 03Lodge the application
- 04Citizenship test, if required
- 05Decision
- 06Ceremony and pledge
Documents you will need
- Passport and identity documents, including any change-of-name evidence
- Evidence of residence, such as travel records and address history
- Your permanent visa grant, for conferral applications
- For descent or a child born in Australia: your parent’s citizenship or residence evidence, the child’s birth certificate and, where relevant, records of the child’s residence in Australia
- For adoption or resumption: the adoption papers, or your former citizenship records
- Police certificates when requested
After the application
- Once approved, you become a citizen at the ceremony, when you make the pledge.
- You can then apply for an Australian passport.
- Keep your citizenship certificate safe, as it is proof of your status.
How we help
- Check your eligibility and timing before you apply
- Review your travel and residence record for gaps
- Prepare identity and supporting evidence
- Lodge the application and follow it through to the ceremony
Common pitfalls
- Applying before the residence requirement is met
- Not checking travel dates and absences in advance
- Inconsistent names or dates across identity documents
- Overlooking character issues that need explaining
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Frequently asked questions
Which citizenship category is right for me?
It depends on how you are connected to Australia. Permanent residents usually apply by conferral. If a parent was an Australian citizen when you were born, descent may apply. Adoption covers children adopted by an Australian citizen. We confirm the category before you apply.
When can I apply for citizenship by conferral?
Generally after a period of lawful residence in Australia that includes time as a permanent resident. The exact calculation depends on your travel and visa history, so we check it before you apply.
Do I need to sit a citizenship test?
Most adult applicants do. The test covers Australia and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. Some applicants are exempt, and we confirm this for you.
Does time spent overseas affect my application?
It can. Absences are counted when residence is assessed, so we review your travel record early.
Can my children be included?
Children can often be included or apply separately, depending on their age and circumstances. We advise on the best approach for your family.