Australian citizenship by conferral: where to start

Becoming an Australian citizen is a milestone for many people who have made Australia home. The Department of Home Affairs describes citizenship by conferral as a common way to become a citizen. Here is how to approach it.

The starting point

Home Affairs says you need to be a permanent resident and meet certain criteria before you can apply. For the main conferral pathway, you must:

• be a permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen holding a Special Category (subclass 444) visa, when you apply and when the decision is made

• in most cases, be in Australia when the decision is made

• intend to live in Australia or maintain a lasting link with Australia while overseas.

There are further eligibility requirements, which Home Affairs sets out on its eligibility page.

Different rules for different ages

The general guidance is for people aged 59 and under. There are separate pages for people aged 60 and over, for 16 and 17 year olds, and for children. A parent can include a dependent child aged 15 or younger in their application at no extra cost, but 16 and 17 year olds must apply on their own.

Fees and timing

Home Affairs publishes current citizenship fees and processing times. It notes that fees usually increase on 1 July each year, so check the official page close to when you apply rather than relying on older information.

Before you apply

• Read the eligibility and step-by-step pages in full.

• Keep copies of your documents and your application.

• Be wary of anyone who promises a particular outcome or timeframe.

This article is general information only and is not migration or legal advice. Use official Home Affairs guidance or a registered migration agent for your own situation.