On Becoming An Australian Citizen

There are different paths to becoming an Australian Citizen.

The number of applicants for citizenship had increased around 2011, but it decreased again around 2018. The reasons for these changes is not certain, but the proposed increase in English ability to university level (which was never approved) and the additional security checks were probably contributing factors. The fact that permanent residents are granted most of the benefits of citizenship is also a factor. Many individuals are quite happy to be permanent residents in Australia.

Who can become Australian Citizen?

Foreign individuals can become citizens by three main paths.

Permanent resident or New Zealand Resident.

– A person aged 59 or younger can apply for citizenship if they have been a permanent resident for several years, or are presently a citizen of New Zealand.
– The individual must be in Australia when the application is decided.
– The individual must intent to stay in Australia, or maintain a connection to the country when overseas.
– The individual must have no serious criminal record.
– The individual must pass a language (IELTS) test
– The individual must past a citizenship test.
– A child aged 15 years or under who is also a permanent resident or New Zealand citizen may be included with a parent application for free.
– There is a fee of AUD285. This may be reduced in some exceptional cases.

Applicants aged 60 or over.

– A person aged 60 or over can apply for citizenship if they have been a permanent resident for several years, or are presently a citizen of New Zealand.
– The individual must be in Australia when the application is decided.
– The individual must intent to stay in Australia, or maintain a connection to the country when overseas.
– The individual must have no serious criminal record.
– A child aged 15 years or under who is also a permanent resident or New Zealand citizen may be included with a parent application for free.
– There is usually a fee of AUD180. Some concession holders may pay just AUD 20.

There is no citizenship test for individuals 60 or over.

Child of an Australian Citizen.

Individuals born outside of Australia to a Parent who was an Australian citizen at the time of birth. They must fulfil basic character requirement and have no serious criminal record.

There is a fee of AUD230, with each additional sibling costing AUD95, providing all apply at the same time.

Additionally, for a Child 15 years or younger.

Either living with an Australian citizen parent or be a resident with a parent who is a permanent resident.

This has a fee of AUD180.

It may take about 18 months, after application, for approval for citizenship. Children of Australian Citizen usually have a much shorter processing time, perhaps 9 months.

In many cases the child should apply with a parent who also wishes to become a citizen.

Consult with Immigration Lawyers Sydney

Immigration and citizenship laws are complex. An Immigration Lawyer Sydney can find the best path for staying in the country.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No individual should take, or refrain from taking, any action solely based on the material contained in this article. While we aim to offer accurate and timely information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on the date of receipt or in the future. If you require more information or seek relevant legal advice specific to your circumstances, please contact our office.