Australian Citizenship: Application Guide for 2026
What is Australian citizenship by conferral?
Australian citizenship by conferral is the process by which a person who is not an Australian citizen by birth or descent applies to become an Australian citizen. It is the final step in the migration journey for most permanent residents. Citizenship gives you the right to vote in Australian elections, apply for an Australian passport, and the security of permanent belonging that cannot be taken away by a change in visa status.
Citizenship applications appear straightforward but contain several traps, particularly around the residence calculation and the good character requirement. I see applications refused every year for errors that could have been avoided with proper advice at the outset.
Who is eligible for Australian citizenship by conferral?
To be eligible for Australian citizenship by conferral, an applicant must satisfy all of the following criteria under the Australian Citizenship Act 2007:
- Permanent resident status — The applicant must hold a permanent visa at the time of application and at the time the decision is made. (Australian Citizenship Act 2007, s.21(2)(a))
- Residence requirement — The applicant must have been lawfully present in Australia for at least four years immediately before the date of application, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident. The applicant must not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total during the four-year period, including no more than 90 days in the 12 months immediately before applying. (Australian Citizenship Act 2007, s.22)
- Good character — The applicant must be of good character at the time of application and at the time of decision. The Department will assess any criminal history, including offences committed overseas. (Australian Citizenship Act 2007, s.21(2)(h))
- Basic knowledge of English — The applicant must have a basic knowledge of the English language. (Australian Citizenship Act 2007, s.21(2)(f))
- Adequate knowledge of Australia — The applicant must have an adequate knowledge of Australia and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship, demonstrated by passing the citizenship test. (Australian Citizenship Act 2007, s.21(2)(e))
- Intention to reside or maintain association with Australia — The applicant must intend to reside in Australia or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia. (Australian Citizenship Act 2007, s.21(2)(g))
How to apply for Australian citizenship by conferral
Step 1: Confirm eligibility The applicant must confirm they meet the residence requirement before lodging. The residence calculation is the most common source of errors. Absences must be calculated precisely, including any time spent outside Australia on a bridging visa before the permanent visa was granted.
Step 2: Book and sit the citizenship test The applicant must book the citizenship test online through the Department of Home Affairs website. The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions drawn from the official resource book Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond. A score of at least 75% (15 out of 20) is required to pass. There is no limit on the number of attempts.
Step 3: Lodge the application The application must be lodged online through ImmiAccount after passing the citizenship test. The application fee is $595 AUD (from 1 July 2026). The applicant must provide identity documents, evidence of residence, and any relevant character documents.
Step 4: Attend an interview (if required) Some applicants are invited to attend an interview with a Department officer. This is not routine but is more common where there are character concerns, complex residence calculations, or identity issues.
Step 5: Attend the citizenship ceremony If the application is approved, the applicant will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony and make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. Citizenship is conferred at the ceremony.
The citizenship test
The citizenship test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions drawn from the official resource book Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond. The test covers:
- Australia's democratic beliefs, rights, and liberties
- Australian history
- Australian society and values
- Australian symbols and national anthem
A score of at least 75% (15 out of 20 correct) is required to pass. There is no limit on the number of attempts. The test is available in English only.
Preparation: Read the official resource book thoroughly. The questions are drawn directly from it and the book is available as a free download from the Department of Home Affairs website.
Common issues and how to address them
Processing times
Current processing times for citizenship applications are approximately 12 to 18 months from lodgement to ceremony. This can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the volume of applications. The Department does not provide individual updates on progress.
My view as a practising immigration lawyer
The residence calculation is the most common trap in citizenship applications. The four-year period must be calculated precisely, and absences must be counted accurately. I have seen applications refused because the applicant miscounted their absences by a matter of days.
The good character requirement is the second most common issue. Any criminal history — including minor offences, spent convictions, or offences committed overseas — must be disclosed. Non-disclosure is treated as a character issue in itself and can result in a refusal that would not otherwise have occurred.
If you have any doubt about your eligibility, seek advice before lodging. A refusal is not the end of the road, but it delays the process and requires additional work to address.
Frequently asked questions
I have been absent from Australia for 14 months in the last 4 years. Can I still apply?
You exceed the 12-month absence limit, but you may be able to apply for a discretionary exemption if your absences were for compelling reasons — such as work, family emergencies, or medical treatment. I would need to review the specific circumstances of your absences before advising whether an exemption is available.
Does time on a bridging visa count towards the residence requirement?
Time spent in Australia on a bridging visa counts as lawful presence but does not count as time as a permanent resident. Only time spent holding a permanent visa counts towards the 12-month permanent resident requirement.
Can I include my children in my citizenship application?
Yes. Children under 16 can be included in a parent's citizenship application. Children aged 16 and over must lodge their own application. Children born in Australia to Australian citizens are automatically Australian citizens by birth.
What happens if I fail the citizenship test?
There is no limit on the number of attempts. You can rebook and resit the test as many times as needed. The test is available at Department of Home Affairs offices across Australia.
Can my citizenship be cancelled after it is granted?
Australian citizenship by conferral can be cancelled in limited circumstances, including if it was obtained by fraud or misrepresentation. Citizenship cannot be cancelled simply because your circumstances change after conferral.