Citizenship
You can become an Australian citizen in different ways, conferral and descent being the most common ways to apply.
Explore now to find out how.
Australian citizenship is a milestone in your migration story.
As an Australian citizen, it means that you will have an ongoing commitment to Australia and its shared values, but it also means that you will have additional privileges.
Your responsibilities and privileges as an Australian citizen
- abide by the Australian law
- vote in elections: federal and state or territory, and in a referendum
- defend Australia (if need be)
- jury service (if called to do so)
As an Australian citizen:
- you can vote in elections: federal and state or territory, and in a referendum
- your children, who were born overeseas can apply for Australian citizenship by descent
- work as a public servant in the Australian Public Service or in the Australian Defence Force
- be elected to parliament if you seek election
- obtain an Australian passport and re-enter Australia without limitations or having to renew your resident return visa
- while overseas, seek and obtain a consular assistance from an Australian official
Enjoy what Australia has to offer
Australian values is based on fairness, respect, freedom and equality of opportunity, which are central to the Australian community remaining a prosperous, secure, and peaceful place to live.
Primary Requirements
Australian Citizenship by conferral
- Australian permanent residents aged 18-59, including New Zealand citizens who are Special Category (subclass 444) visa holders
- Australian permanent residents aged 60 or over, including New Zealand citizens who are Special Category (subclass 444) visa holders
- children who are 16 or 17 years of age
- children who are 15 years or younger applying with a responsible parent
- migrants from the Commonwealth Child Migration Scheme, refugees or humanitarian
Other criteria apply. Talk to us to find out more information and see if this option is right for you.
Australian Citizenship by descent
- if you are born people overseas and your parent is or was an Australian citizen
- If you are an Australian parent needing to register your child born overseas
Other criteria apply. Talk to us to find out more information and see if this option is right for you.
Next Steps
We understand that Australian immigration is complicated, and it is confusing to assert the best option that may be available to you and your family. Talk to us to find out what suit you best.
