Australian Citizenship Requirement And Application
Becoming an Australian citizen is a major step for permanent residents who want to fully belong in Australia and enjoy the rights that come with citizenship. Before applying, you’ll need to understand the Australian citizenship requirements, such as residency, character, and the citizenship test. Below is a clear overview to help you know what you need and how to get started.
Most applicants aged 18 and over need to meet specific key requirements to be approved for Australian citizenship. These include:
Completing the citizenship test (not required for applicants aged 60+)
Holding permanent resident status both when applying and when the decision is made
Meeting the required period of lawful residence in Australia
Showing a genuine intention to live in Australia long-term or maintain strong ties to the country
Demonstrating good character
Children can also become Australian citizens, but their requirements differ from those for adults.
Citizenship by Birth
If you were born in Australia and at least one parent was an Australian citizen or permanent resident at the time, you generally become an Australian citizen automatically.
No separate application is usually needed, as your birth certificate already confirms your status.
Citizenship by Descent
For individuals born outside Australia, citizenship by descent may be available if you have at least one Australian parent.
Applicants aged 18 or over must also meet the character requirement.
Citizenship by Conferral
If you are not an Australian citizen by birth or descent, you can apply for citizenship by conferral. Key Australian citizenship requirement include:
Passing the citizenship test and demonstrating basic English ability
Showing integration into the community and a commitment to staying connected to Australia
Currently living in Australia
Children under 16 may be included in a parent’s application and do not need to meet the residency requirement.
Character Requirement
Applicants aged 18 and above must be of good character. This means demonstrating honesty, respect for the law, and behaviour that aligns with Australian values.
The Department may consider factors such as:
Criminal history in Australia or overseas
Court-related obligations
Association with individuals of concern
Any history of domestic violence
Whether you have provided truthful information in immigration or citizenship matters
A serious criminal record may prevent approval of a citizenship application.
Residency Requirement
For most applicants, you must have lived lawfully in Australia for the last 4 years, including:
At least 12 months as a permanent resident
No more than 12 months total spent outside Australia in those 4 years
No more than 90 days spent outside Australia in the 12 months before you apply
Some applicants qualify for a reduced residence requirement, such as:
These individuals may only need to be in Australia for 480 days in the last 4 years, including 120 days in the final year.
If you are unsure which category you fall into, contact VEM for personalised guidance. Our registered migration agent (MARN: 1577877) can assess your situation and guide you through the citizenship process with confidence.
Citizenship Test
Most applicants aged 18 to 59 must take the citizenship test. The test checks your understanding of:
Basic English
Life in Australia
Rights and responsibilities of citizenship
Australian values, including respect, equality, and freedom
The test has 20 multiple-choice questions. To pass, you must achieve:
At least 75% (15 correct answers)
All 5 questions on Australian values are correct
How To Apply for Australian Citizenship?
Applying for Australian citizenship involves a few key steps to show that you meet the requirements and are ready to become part of the Australian community.
Receive support from Australian embassies and consulates when you are overseas.
Take part in Australia’s democratic process (voting in federal, state/territory elections, and referendums).
Run for public office, giving you the ability to stand as a candidate in Parliament.
Work in government and defence roles that are only open to citizens.
Register children born overseas as Australian citizens by descent.
Tips For Success
1. Prepare for the test
Make sure you’re familiar with the official study guide, Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond. This resource covers everything the test may ask about Australia’s history, values, legal system, and democratic principles.
2. Get support when you need it
Preparing alone can be challenging, so consider joining a local study group or connecting with others online who are also getting ready for the test. Sharing tips, asking questions, and discussing topics can make learning easier.
3. Keep yourself updated
Citizenship rules and test requirements are subject to change, so it’s essential to check official government websites regularly.
For optimal results with your visa application, reach out to VEM for expert assistance. Our vregistered migration professional (MARN: 1577877) will provide professional legal advice and ensure your application is thoroughly prepared for the best possible outcome.
By: Peter Phong D Cao – Registered migration agent
Citizens enjoy a range of rights, including holding an Australian passport, voting in national and local elections, standing for public office, and entering or leaving Australia without visa restrictions.
To qualify, you must have spent at least four years lawfully living in Australia. Within that period, your total time spent overseas must be under 12 months, and in the final year before applying, you cannot have been away for more than 90 days.
You need to achieve a minimum of 75%, that is, at least 15 correct answers out of 20. All questions related to Australian values must also be answered correctly.
Yes. After your application is approved, you must take part in a citizenship ceremony and make the citizenship pledge before you are officially recognised as an Australian citizen.
Mr. Phong Cao is a licensed migration agent by MARA (MARN: 1577877). He is also a member of the Migration Institute of Australia (MIA: 12648), one of the most reputable organizations in the field of immigration in Australia. In addition, Mr. Phong Cao holds a QEAC certification in study abroad consulting (QEAC: K580) and Australian real estate investment (RA85931). With over 12 years of experience in Australian immigration, he provides comprehensive solutions for studying and settling in Australia.
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