Australian Citizenship Criteria – Are You Eligible?

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Australian Citizenship Criteria

Australian Citizenship Criteria – Am I Eligible to Apply?

Your Guide to Becoming an Australian Citizen

Australian citizenship is a proud milestone for many migrants. Whether you’ve lived here for years or recently become a permanent resident, understanding the citizenship criteria is the first step. This page will help you determine if you meet the residency, character, and legal requirements to apply for Australian citizenship through conferral.

Key Eligibility Criteria for Australian Citizenship

To be eligible for Australian citizenship by conferral, you generally must meet the following criteria:

  1. Permanent Residency Status
    • You must hold a permanent visa (such as Subclass 801, 100, 189, 190, or 887) at the time of application.
  1. Residency Requirement

    You must have:

    • Lived in Australia legally for at least 4 years before applying, and
    • Been a permanent resident for at least 12 months immediately before lodging your application
    • Not been absent from Australia for more than:
      • 12 months in total in the last 4 years, and
      • 90 days in the last 12 months
  1. Character Requirement

    You must be of good character, which generally involves passing police checks (e.g. AFP National Police Certificate) and disclosing any criminal history.

  1. Basic English Language

    You should demonstrate a basic understanding of English for daily communication and civic responsibilities.

  1. Citizenship Test

    Applicants aged 18 to 59 must pass a citizenship test covering:

    • Australian values
    • History and traditions
    • Government and laws

Additional Considerations

Depending on your situation, there may be exemptions or additional steps:

  • Children under 16 don’t need to sit the test or meet residency independently.
  • Partners of Australian citizens must still meet all criteria.
  • Unlawful periods or visa breaches may affect your eligibility.
  • Some visa holders (e.g. 309 or 820) must first become permanent residents before applying.

Required Documents

Typical documents include:

  • Valid passport and current visa grant notice
  • Birth certificate or national ID
  • Police checks (Australian and overseas)
  • Travel records (arrival/departure history)
  • Evidence of permanent residency

Why Choose Jade Immigration Lawyers?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we simplify the citizenship process:

  • We assess your eligibility based on your unique migration history
  • Prepare and lodge your application with accuracy
  • Handle complex cases involving travel gaps, past visa refusals, or Schedule 3 issues
  • Offer fixed fees and clear timelines

Ready to Begin?

Let us help you become an Australian citizen with confidence.

📞 Call us on 0485 907 989 or book online. We assist clients across Australia and internationally.

Related Pages

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Australian Citizenship services and processes. If you need further assistance, feel free to contact Jade Immigration Lawyers today!

How long must I live in Australia before applying for citizenship?

You must live in Australia legally for at least 4 years, with at least 12 months as a permanent resident, and meet travel limits.

Can I apply for citizenship if I’ve had visa issues in the past?

Possibly. It depends on the nature of the visa issues. We recommend a legal assessment to see if they affect your eligibility.

Do children need to meet the same criteria?

No. Children under 16 do not need to meet the residence requirement or take the citizenship test, but must be included in a parent’s application.

What police checks are required for Australian citizenship?

You need an AFP National Police Check and may be asked to provide overseas police clearances if you lived abroad.

Can I apply for citizenship if I’m married to an Australian citizen?

Yes, but you still need to meet the standard eligibility requirements, including residency and character.