Applicants aged 18 to 59 must sit and pass the Australian Citizenship Test. The test covers:

• Australian values

• Government and democracy

• Rights and responsibilities

• Basic history and community knowledge

The Department assesses whether you are of good character. This includes reviewing:

• Criminal history in Australia and overseas

• Pending charges

• Compliance with visa conditions

• Any false or misleading information previously provided

All matters must be disclosed.

Applications are usually lodged online through the Department of Home Affairs portal. You will:

• Complete the form

• Upload identity documents

• Pay the application fee

• Book a citizenship test appointment

You become a citizen on the day you make the Australian Citizenship Pledge at your citizenship ceremony — not when your application is approved.

Yes. Dependent children can usually be included in your application. Different rules apply depending on the child’s age and residency status.

Possibly. You must meet the residence requirement, including:

• No more than 12 months total absence in the 4 years before applying

• No more than 90 days absence in the 12 months before applying

If you travelled frequently for work or family reasons, your eligibility should be carefully calculated before lodging.

No. A refusal of citizenship does not cancel your permanent residency. However, if character concerns arise, they may trigger separate migration considerations.

You do not need perfect English. However, you must:

• Demonstrate basic English understanding

• Be able to understand the citizenship test questions

• Understand the pledge at the ceremony

You can usually re-sit the test. If you repeatedly fail, the Department may review your circumstances more closely.

Proper preparation reduces stress and delays.

Your spouse must apply separately unless they are included as a dependent child. Each adult applicant must meet the eligibility requirements individually.

You are not required to use a migration agent. However, professional guidance is strongly recommended if you:

• Have complex travel history

• Have character matters

• Had visa refusals or cancellations

• Spent time on Bridging Visas

• Are unsure about meeting residence requirements

Citizenship is your final migration step. It is important to get it right.