Australian Citizenship by Conferral | Document Checklist & Eligibility

Australian permanent residents (PR) can apply for citizenship by conferral. This document checklist below will help you gather all the necessary documents for a smooth visa application process.

Who is eligible for Citizenship by Conferral?

To qualify for Australian citizenship by conferral, you must meet the following key criteria: 

• Be a permanent resident (PR) or an eligible New Zealand citizen at the time of your application and when the Department decides on your application. 

• Meet the residence requirement. 

• Meet the “good character” test.

• Be onshore (in Australia) when the Department makes its decision (in most cases). 

• You must have spent sufficient time in Australia and be able to pass a citizenship test to prove that you commit to Australian values.  

• If your application is approved, you will likely reside in Australia or maintain a close and continuing link with Australia.

You can read our detailed Citizenship by Conferral eligibility page to ensure you meet the requirements.

What Documentation is required to make an application? 

Proof of Identity 

You need to provide identity documents for yourself and any children included in your application.

• Proof of name, date of birth, and gender such as full birth certificate, family register, etc.

• Photo identification (with applicant’s signed photograph) such as Passport, driver’s license, ImmiCard, proof of age card, National Identity Card, etc.

• Proof of current residential address such as utility bill, bank statement, and lease agreement. etc.

• Proof of change of name (if applicable) such as Marriage or divorce certificate, deed poll, etc.

A passport-sized photograph with the full name written on the back must also be provided in order to make an application.

Evidence of Good Character

Applicants, especially those over 18 years old, must demonstrate that they have no character issues.

1. National Police Check - For applicants aged 16 years and over, the Department will request a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC).

2. Overseas Penal Clearance - Obtain police clearance certificates from countries where you have lived for 90 days or more since becoming a permanent resident. Ensure the document is in authorised translations into English.

If you have a criminal history, you must provide additional information and evidence to explain why you believe you are of good character despite any adverse information. It is highly recommended that the applicant seek professional legal advice in such cases before submitting the visa application.

Citizenship Application Forms

To apply for citizenship by conferral, you must complete and submit an online application form to the Department.

After completing the form, you will have to make a payment of AUD 560 per applicant lodgement fee as of 1 July 2024. Applicants under 16 years of age are exempt from the fee when applying on the same form as a parent.

What Happens After I Lodge My Citizenship Application?

Once you have submitted your application, a citizenship test (if applicable) will be scheduled for you. The citizenship test covers knowledge of:

• Australian values

• Australian history

• Responsibilities as a citizen

The “Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond” booklet, which is available online, contains all the information the applicants need to pass the test.

You will attend a citizenship ceremony after passing the test, where you pledge:

• Your loyalty to Australia and its people

• To share Australia’s democratic beliefs and respect its rights and liberties

• To uphold and obey the laws of Australia

The ceremony is typically held within six months of your application’s approval, subject to the availability of your local council.

Why Choose to be an Australian Citizen?

Becoming an Australian citizen comes with all the perks, including: 

• The right to vote in elections and referendums 

• Eligibility to apply for a job in the Australian Public Service or the Australian Defence Force 

• The ability to seek election to parliament 

• Eligibility to apply for an Australian passport 

• Access to consular assistance from an Australian official while overseas

A complete overview of the privileges and responsibilities of Australian citizens is on the Immi website for you to discover. 

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You?

Applying for Australian citizenship is usually simple and straightforward. However, when complexities occur, we specialise in resolving complex issues. Below are some examples of the challenging citizenship matters we specialise in.

• Seeking residency requirement waivers;

• An applicant is not of good character at the time of the decision;

• The applicant has been unlawful and others.

You can book a Migration Planning Session with one of our immigration lawyers or Accredited Specialist(s) in Immigration Law to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310-5230 or emailing us to book a time at info@ahclawyers.com.

We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If these aren’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.