The process of applying for Australian citizenship varies depending on your eligibility. There are several different application options with different eligibility requirements.

Some of the options for Australian Citizenship are:

• Migrant with permanent residence
• Spouse or partner of an Australian citizen
• New Zealand citizen living in Australia
• Child of a former Australian citizen
• Commonwealth Child Migration Scheme arrival
• Refugee or humanitarian entrant
• Person born in Papua before independence in 1975
• Australian citizenship by descent
• Australian citizenship by adoption

Permanent Residents

According to the latest changes announced by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet regarding the Australian Citizenship Legislation Amendment Bill, permanent residents need to meet new requirements to get Australian citizenship. One of the requirements specify that you need to live in Australia as a permanent resident for a minimum period of 4 years. (read full article)

Migrants with permanent residence who satisfy the eligibility requirements can apply for Australian citizenship by conferral. Children 16 years of age and under are usually included in the application of their responsible parent.

Birth in Australia

If you were born in Australia, then you would automatically be an Australian citizen if:

• You were born in Australia prior to 20 August 1986; OR
• You were born in Australia after 20 August 1986, and one of your parents held Australian citizenship or an Australian permanent residence visa at the time of birth; OR
• You were born in Australia after 20 August 1986, neither of your parents held Australian citizenship or an Australian permanent residence visa, but you have spent the majority of your life in Australia prior to your 10th birthday. In this case, you automatically become an Australian citizen on your 10th birthday.
• Born Overseas to an Australian Citizen Parent

If you were born overseas and one of your parents held Australian citizenship at your date of birth, then you are eligible to be registered as an Australian citizen. The registration must be done at an Australian consulate or embassy overseas.

Dual Citizenship

Australia now allows dual citizenship. That means that an Australian citizen can take up citizenship of another country without losing their Australian citizenship.

If, on the other hand, you become an Australian citizen, it is up to the law of your country of citizenship whether you can keep your existing citizenship.

Other Requirements

You must:

• Understand the nature of your citizenship application
• Possess a good knowledge of the English language to pass the Citizenship Test
• Have adequate knowledge of Australian values and of the responsibilities and privileges of Australian Citizenship
• Show evidence of your contribution to the Australian community (employment, membership of organisations, etc.)
• Are of good character at the time of the decision on the application.

Please contact a Registered Migration Agent at Perdaman Global Services if you wish to discuss citizenship under another option: advice@perdaman-gs.com.au