Australian Citizenship Application

Eligibility Criteria

Age

Applicants must generally be at least 18 years old (exceptions may apply).

Visa Status

The applicant must hold Australian permanent residency or be an eligible New Zealand citizen.

Residence Requirements

• In the 4 years immediately before applying, applicants must meet the following:
• Legally resided in Australia for at least 3 years.
• Held a permanent visa for at least 1 year.
• Not spent more than 90 days outside Australia in the last 12 months.

Character Requirements

Applicants must pass a good character assessment.

Citizenship Test (for applicants aged 18 to 59)

A test that assesses knowledge of Australia’s history, culture, values, and laws.

Citizenship Process

Citizenship Test

Topics include: Australian history, Culture, National values, Political and legal systems.

The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions drawn randomly from a question bank.

Passing Score: At least 15 out of 20 correct answers (75%). Conducted in English, the test is held at Department of Immigration and Citizenship offices and other locations.

Passing the citizenship test demonstrates that you understand the commitments you make when reciting the Australian Citizenship Pledge.

Citizenship Ceremony

A formal ceremony where new citizens take the Australian Citizenship Pledge, marking the final step to becoming an Australian citizen. Ceremonies may be small (a few participants) or large (hundreds or thousands).

At the beginning of the citizenship ceremony, you may be welcomed by an Indigenous representative, who is the traditional custodian of the land in your area. You will hear welcoming and encouraging speeches from other community leaders or government representatives. Together with others choosing to become Australian citizens, you will recite or repeat the Australian Citizenship Pledge aloud.

This is the most important part of the ceremony. You only become an Australian citizen after reciting the pledge and making a commitment to Australia. You may bring a Bible or scripture to hold while reciting the pledge, but it is not mandatory to do so.

Rights and Responsibilities of Australian Citizens

1. After obtaining Australian citizenship, you will enjoy the right to vote as an Australian citizen. It is important to note that under the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, voting is a civic duty, and citizens who fail to exercise their right to vote may be fined (Penalty).

2. Citizens can run for office or join the military.

3. Citizens are eligible to apply for an Australian passport, offering: Unrestricted re-entry into Australia. Visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to many countries.