Australian Citizenship
There are multiple different ways you can become an Australian citizen. Becoming a citizen be conferral or descent are the most common ways to become an Australian citizen.
You may be eligible to become a citizen by descent if at least one of your parents was an Australian citizen when you were born. To be eligible for citizenship by descent, you must have been born outside of Australia, and meet the character requirements.
To become a citizen by conferral you must be a permanent resident, pass a citizenship test, pass an English language assessment and have a close and continuing link to Australia. This could include having family in Australia, owning property and employment in Australia.
There are a few circumstances where citizenship can not be granted. This includes the following:
- When you cannot provide evidence of your identity.
- You are considered a risk to Australia’s National Security.
- When you have proceedings for a criminal offence against you in a court, it has been 2 years since you were released from a prison, you are subject to conditions set by a court such as bail or parole, or you are in a prison or psychiatric institution by order of a court.
- If you ceased to be a citizen in the past 12 months.
- If you are outside of Australia at the time of application in certain circumstances.
There are also multiple other pathways to become a citizen depending on your circumstances. We are able to help you determine the best pathway for you.
FAQs
How much does a citizenship application cost?
An application for citizenship by descent costs $345 and an application by conferral costs $540. Other fees may also apply.
I have a criminal record, am I eligible for citizenship?
A citizenship application cannot be granted if:
- proceedings for an offence against an Australian law (including proceedings by way of appeal or review) are pending.
- when it is less than 2 years since you were released from prison after serving a prison sentence of 12 months or more, or 10 years if you are a repeat offender.
- you are subject to certain conditions set by an Australian court (such as being released on parole, good behaviour or bail) where action may be taken against you for breach of those conditions.
- you are in prison or a psychiatric institution by order of the court at the time of decision.
If you have a criminal record but it has been more than 2 years since you have served your sentence, you may be eligible, however your record will still be considered.
Contact Us
If you would like to find out more about how Hicksons can assist you, please contact us below.
If you would like a more detailed break-down of visa options, please view the Citizenship Brochure and 'Being An Australian' Brochure.
Najeh Marhaba
Partner in Charge - Newcastle
T: +61 2 4907 5609
E: [email protected] |
Admitted into practice in NSW in 2006, Najeh has a particular interest assisting clients in navigating the complex area of immigration.
As an Australian immigration lawyer, he leads a team in providing strategic advice and assistance to both a corporate and individual client base, with a focus on supporting migrants in visa applications and sponsorship across a range of visas.
This includes business visas, skilled visas (short term, long term and permanent), significant investor visas, student visas, partner visas, visitor visas and bridging visas. Najeh speaks both English and Arabic. |
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Hannah Nebart
Solicitor
T: +61 2 4907 5663
E: [email protected] |
Hannah was admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW in 2024 and graduated law in 2023.
Hannah has a passion for migration law and helping people navigate borders to build their best life.
Hannah meets with clients to receive their instructions and will communicate with clients while preparing visa applications to keep you informed throughout the whole process. |