Australian Citizenship by Conferral

What is Citizenship by Conferral?

Citizenship by conferral is the most common pathway to becoming an Australian citizen. It is available to permanent residents (including eligible SCV holders) who meet the residency, character, and civic requirements set by law

Key Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  1. Be a permanent resident under a valid visa

  2. Have lived in Australia on a valid visa for 4 years, including at least 12 months as PR before applying

  3. Have not been absent for more than 12 months total in the last 4 years, and not more than 90 days in the final 12 months

  4. Be of good character (18+), with background checks through NPCS and AFP

  5. Intend to live in—or maintain strong ties with—Australia

  6. Pass the citizenship test and interview (if aged 18–59)

Special rules apply for NZ citizens holding a Special Category Visa (SCV), New Zealand stream visa holders, and applicants aged under 16 or over 60  

Application Process (Simplified)

  1. Check your eligibility using the Residence Calculator and ensure PR status
  2. Gather required documents, including identity documents, travel history, police checks, and English language proofs
  3. Lodge your application via ImmiAccount (paper form available) and pay fees (Adult $560, Concession $80)
  4. Sit the citizenship test and interview if aged 18–59, demonstrating knowledge of civics, values, and English
  5. Await decision and address any requests from the Department
  6. Attend a citizenship ceremony, make the pledge, and receive your certificate

Processing & Ceremony Wait Times

Processing is based on the order of receipt and completeness of the application.
Processing times and ceremony wait times are publicly listed and updated regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can NZ citizens with SCV apply?

Yes—SCV holders (and NZ stream 189 holders) can apply directly from 1 July 2023, meeting standard residence requirements

No more than 12 months outside Australia in the last four years, and no more than 90 days in the final 12 months

Only applicants aged 18 to 59 must pass the citizenship test and attend an interview

All applicants aged 18+ must provide police checks through the NCCHS and AFP. Criminal history does not necessarily exclude you but is reviewed

Yes—children under 16 can be included on a parent’s application at no additional cost (must be PR)

Standard adult application: AUD 560. Concession fee: AUD 80. Child under 16 on parent application: free

📞 Get Help Applying for Citizenship

If you’d like help with your application, preparing for the test, or locating documents, contact Abbasi Migration & Citizenship Services. We can assist with every step to smooth your path to citizenship.

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