When can I apply?

An application for citizenship can be made by any Australian permanent resident who has lived in Australia lawfully for a period of at least 4 years including at least one year as a permanent resident.

The applicant must also have physically lived in Australia for 3 of the 4 years immediately before making the application and at least 9 months of the 12 months immediately before making the application.

What documents do I need to provide?

Applications can be made by either a paper application or an on-line application through IMMI account. You will need to provide identity documents that together show your photograph and signature (eg. passport or drivers licence), your current residential address (eg. drivers licence, bank statement or electricity bill) and your birth name, date of birth and gender (eg. birth certificate or passport).

If you have changed your name, documentary evidence will need to be provided.

You will also have to provide an Identity Declaration completed by a person with the relevant authority. This is to be completed on Form 1195. That person must not only complete and sign the declaration but sign the back of a photograph of you.

You will also need to provide a Police Clearance certificate for every country that you have lived in for 12 months or more since you were granted your Permanent Australia visa.

Do I have to pay?

Yes. The current application fee is $285 unless you are eligible for a concession.

Can I include children in my application?

Yes, if they are under 16. Otherwise they will need to make their own application.

What is the process?

Once your application is lodged with the department it will assess your application and advise you of the outcome. If successful you will be invited to a citizenship appointment where you will need to sit the citizenship test or have an interview if you can’t sit the test.

What sort of questions will be asked on the citizenship test?

In order to sit the test you need a basic knowledge of the English language and have an adequate knowledge of Australia and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. Further details are available from the department website at www.border.gov.au.

What happens then?

If your application is approved, you will need to attend a citizenship ceremony and take the Australia citizenship pledge. You must do this within 12 months of being notified that your application has been approved.