Australian Citizenship by Conferral
General information about citizenship by conferral, document planning, and official source verification.
Information Notice
This page contains general information only. Visa requirements and policies may change. Confirm current requirements through the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Overview
Citizenship by conferral is a common way for Australian permanent residents and eligible New Zealand citizens to become Australian citizens. Different application pathways apply according to age, whether a person can sit the citizenship test, and other circumstances.
A person may already be an Australian citizen or may have a different citizenship pathway, such as citizenship by descent or evidence of citizenship. The Department's citizenship pathway information is the authoritative place to identify the relevant process.
General Eligibility Areas
For the standard adult conferral pathway, the Department considers matters including permanent residence status, time lived in Australia, absences from Australia, good character, citizenship knowledge, English ability for the test, and an intention to live in Australia or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia.
The general residence rule described by the Department is usually four years living in Australia on a valid visa immediately before applying, including the final 12 months as a permanent resident or eligible Special Category visa holder, with limits on absences. Exemptions and special residence rules exist, so the official residence calculator and pathway page should be used rather than this summary.
Test, Decision and Ceremony
Most applicants aged 18 to 59 sit the citizenship test. The test assesses knowledge of Australia, its democratic beliefs, rights and liberties, government and law, and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. Official preparation material is published in Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond.
If an application is approved, most applicants must attend a citizenship ceremony and make the Australian Citizenship Pledge before becoming a citizen. Approval of an application is not always the final step.
Document Planning
Common document categories include identity documents, evidence of changes of name, a current photograph and documents relevant to residence or any exemption claimed. The application pathway lists the documents required for that applicant type.
Documents not in English generally need an English translation that meets the Department's requirements. Applicants should follow the current upload and certification instructions shown in ImmiAccount and on the citizenship application pages.
Frequently asked questions
Does permanent residence automatically become citizenship?
No. Permanent residence and citizenship are different statuses. A person generally needs to apply for citizenship and meet the requirements for their pathway.
Is the citizenship test required for everyone?
No. The process varies by age and circumstances. The Department provides separate pathways for applicants who do and do not sit the test.
Related Australian visa information
Important Disclaimer
Important: Australia Visa Information provides general information only and does not provide immigration or legal advice. We are not affiliated with the Australian Government or the Department of Home Affairs. For advice based on your personal circumstances, consult an independent Registered Migration Agent or Australian legal practitioner.
Official Sources
Request an RMA Referral
If you want to speak with an independent Registered Migration Agent, you can submit a referral request. Australia Visa Information does not assess eligibility or provide migration advice.
Request an RMA Referral