Becoming an Australian citizen is the final step for many migrants — and for others it's a right they may not know they have. Most applications are straightforward, but residence calculations, character issues and descent claims can be complex.
We advise on eligibility, prepare applications and evidence, and help when an application is delayed or refused.
How we help
- Eligibility and residence calculations
- Citizenship by conferral
- Citizenship by descent for people born overseas
- Citizenship for children
- Character and identity issues
- Refusals and ART review
Good to know
- The residence requirement
- For citizenship by conferral you generally need four years' lawful residence in Australia immediately before applying, including the last 12 months as a permanent resident.
- Time overseas counts
- Within those four years you can generally be away for no more than 12 months in total, and no more than 90 days in the 12 months before you apply.
- The citizenship test
- Most adult applicants sit a test of 20 multiple-choice questions. You need 75% to pass, and must answer all five questions on Australian values correctly.
- Citizenship by descent
- If one of your parents was an Australian citizen when you were born overseas, you may be able to apply for citizenship by descent — even as an adult.
General information current at October 2026, not legal advice. Laws, thresholds and fees change — get advice on your circumstances.
Questions
When can I apply for citizenship?
When you meet the residence requirement — generally four years' lawful residence, including 12 months as a permanent resident — and the other criteria, such as good character. We can work out your dates from your travel history.
How many days can I spend overseas?
Generally no more than 12 months in total in the four years before you apply, and no more than 90 days in the last 12 months.
What's on the citizenship test?
Twenty questions on Australia's democratic beliefs, rights and responsibilities, government and laws, and values, drawn from the official resource Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond. The pass mark is 75%, with all five values questions answered correctly.
Can a citizenship application be refused?
Yes — for example on character or identity grounds, or if the residence requirement isn't met. Many refusals can be reviewed by the Administrative Review Tribunal.