Australia is a very diverse country and has lots of beautiful landscapes and friendly people. This country also offers a high-quality life, good healthcare, and education system. Many people want to be a part of Australian culture and experience the benefits of citizenship. If you have the same dream goal then the first step is to explore and understand different paths to become an Australian citizen.
In this guide, we will discuss some of the pathways that you can take to become an Australian citizen. We will also discuss eligibility, requirements, and steps involved in the application process. If you are confused then you have come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything and suggest tips to help you achieve your Dream.
Table of Contents
Two Main Ways to Become an Australian Citizen
Conferral
This is one of the most common pathways to becoming an Australian Citizen.
It requires you to live at least 4 years inside Australia including 1 year permanent residence.
To become eligible for this you will need to pass a citizenship test and attend a citizenship ceremony.
Descent
Citizenship by descent is another option to acquire Australian citizenship. This pathway requires that at least one of your parents must be an Australian citizen. So if you were born outside of Australia but want to migrate to Australia then this pathway can be the best option for you. To obtain Australian Citizenship by descent. You will have to provide some evidence like proof of your relationship with your parents. Particularly you will have to provide your birth certificate. And documents confirming the Australian Citizenship of your parents.
Eligibility requirements
To become an Australian Citizen you must meet the eligibility requirements. Fulfilling these requirements will determine your success in the application process. Let’s explore some of these crucial requirements.
Residential Criterion
You will have to live in Australia for four years before you apply for citizenship. In addition, you also have to live one continuous year in Australia. This means that you cannot spend extended periods outside of Australia during this one year. If you aim to become an Australian Citizen then consider minimising the absence from the country.
It will affect your eligibility for citizenship. Keep in mind that you will later have to provide evidence of your continued residency to the Department of Home Affairs. Evidence such as Employment records, utility bills, or residential agreements.
Basic English knowledge
Knowledge of the English language is also a very crucial requirement. You will have to demonstrate your English reading, writing, and communication skills. This is necessary to demonstrate because the authorities need to analyse your ability to integrate. And communicate in Australian society.
Good reading and writing skills are also very essential. They will help you to pass the knowledge assessment test for Australian Citizenship. This test focuses on assessing your knowledge of Australian history and law.
Knowledge of Australian laws and history
You must possess a very good understanding of the Australian laws and its history. Every applicant aged 18 and over is required to pass this test to obtain citizenship. The test will include topics like Australian democracy, citizenship rights, and Australian history.
This test is necessary because it helps the Australian authorities know that applicants have basic knowledge of Australian values. And can act and live responsibly in Australian society without breaking the law.
Good Character
Make sure that you stay away from breaking any law and have no prior criminal records. To make your application more unique and attractive. You can participate in community services or volunteer to work on local environmental projects.
So, these are some of the essential requirements that you must fulfil to become eligible for Australian citizenship.
Application Process Steps
There are some important steps that you will have to take to apply for Australian citizenship.
Now let’s explore what these steps are.
Eligibility confirmation
First, you need to check that you meet all the eligibility requirements. To make sure that you meet all the requirements you can also visit the official website of the Department of Australian Home Affairs.
Visit the official website
After you check the eligibility now is the time to visit the official website of the Australian Government’s named ImmiAccount. This website is made primarily for people who want to apply for visas and citizenship.
Once you are there you will have to log in to Immiaccout or create an account to proceed further.
Gather all the documents
After login to the account, you will have to gather all the required documents to support your application. You may need to provide documents like your passport. Proof of residency. Birth certificate. And criminal history clarification.
Application form
The next step is to complete the application form. Fill out the form and include all the documents required. Make sure that you fill out the form properly because any mistake can cause a delay.
Pay the Application Fee
After filling out the form you will have to pay the application fee. The current 2024 fee of the application is AUD 330 for teenagers aged 16 or 17, and AUD 540 for adults aged between 20 and 59.
Citizenship Test Preparation
If you are over 18 then a citizen test is required. So, to ensure better results you can start studying for the citizenship test. If you need resources then you can use online practice tests. And official study materials provided by the Australian Government. After preparation, you will have to schedule a date for the test.
Waiting for the decision
After completing all the necessary steps and clearing the test now is the time to wait for the decision. It can take around 6 to 12 months to process your application. So be patient and wait for the decision.
Conclusion
Migrating to Australia is the dream of many individuals. This country provides lots of opportunities for personal and business growth. If you want to accomplish this dream then you need to know about the pathways and steps involved in each of them. By following this guide you can make your application process easier. And increase your chance of getting approved.
