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PATHWAY TO AUSTRALIAN CITIZENSHIP

13 March 2024 

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The journey to Australian citizenship is both exciting and complex. You must meet the criteria before you apply.

Our goal is to guide you through this process, to ensure a smooth transition into the Australian community/Citizenship. 

Why Choose Australian Citizenship?

With Australian Citizenship you can:

  • Have Passport privileges

  • Have voting rights

  • Have Social Security benefits

  • Participate in jury duty

Eligibility Criteria

Who Qualifies?

  • Permanent Residents including New Zealand Special Category visa holders

  • People who were born in Australia

  • The parent was an Australian citizen when the child was born overseas

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, you need to meet some criteria to be an Australian Citizen. Which are:

  • You should have been living in Australia on a valid visa for at least 4 years before applying.

  • Hold a permanent visa or a Special Category Visa (SCV) for the last 12 months immediately preceding the application.

  • Not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total in the past 4 years, including no more than 90 days in total in the 12 months immediately before applying. Exemptions apply for children aged 16 or 17 under significant hardship.
     

Exemptions and Special Circumstances:

  • Exemptions from residence requirement apply to individuals under 16 years old, those born to former Australian citizens, or born in Papua before 16 September 1975 with Australian parentage.

  • Members of the Australian Defence Force and their families may be exempt from the residence requirement.

  • Family members may be exempt if they were granted specific visas and the primary applicant meets certain military service criteria.

  • Ministerial discretion may apply in certain cases.

If you are currently an Australian Permanent Residence and planning to apply for Australian Citizenship, you may need to be well prepared before you apply. Book a consultation with us to discuss more with our Registered Migration Agents (MARN15729613): https://www.racc.net.au/booking-calendar/pr-pathways-and-visa-options-1

The Application Process

To apply for Australian citizenship, start by verifying your eligibility and gathering the required documents, including original police certificates and certified copies if applying by paper.

 

Submit your application and payment online for faster processing. If you're between 18 and 59 years old, expect an appointment for the citizenship test or an interview if exempt. Throughout the process, keep us informed of any changes in your circumstances and provide any additional documents requested. We'll notify you of our decision in writing.

 

Once approved, most applicants must attend a citizenship ceremony to take the Australian Citizenship Pledge, with invitations sent about four weeks before the event. Keep an eye on Citizenship processing times for updates on ceremony wait times.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Guidance When Needed
Our clients encounter common hurdles:

  • English: We can help you with the English course.

  • Document Verification: RACC ensures accurate paperwork.

  • Professional Support: Our Migration agent will help you through the process.

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