Becoming an Australian citizen is the final step of many migration journeys. This guide explains who can apply for citizenship by conferral, how the residence requirement works, and how to prepare for the citizenship test.
✔ Reviewed September 2026 by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899). Official sources: Home Affairs: citizenship.
Who can apply?
Most permanent residents apply for citizenship by conferral. You generally need to be a permanent resident at the time you apply and when the decision is made, meet the residence requirement, be of good character, understand the responsibilities of citizenship and intend to live in, or keep a close connection to, Australia.
The general residence requirement
- You must have lived in Australia on a valid visa for 4 years immediately before applying
- This must include at least 12 months as a permanent resident
- You must not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total during the 4 years
- You must not have been absent for more than 90 days in total in the 12 months before applying
- Time spent unlawfully in Australia generally does not count
The citizenship test
Most applicants aged 18 to 59 must sit the citizenship test. It has 20 multiple-choice questions based on the official resource Our Common Bond. You need to score at least 75 percent and answer all five questions on Australian values correctly.
Australia and its people
History, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and national symbols.
Democratic beliefs, rights and liberties
Freedom of speech, religion and association, equality and the rule of law.
Government and the law
How Parliament, the Constitution, elections and courts work.
Australian values
Respect, equality, fairness and the responsibilities of citizens.
Common mistakes
- Applying one or two days too early because absences were miscounted
- Forgetting overseas trips when calculating the 12-month and 90-day limits
- Not declaring criminal matters, including traffic offences that went to court
- Assuming New Zealand citizens are automatically eligible without checking their visa history
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate my residence time?
Use your travel history, which you can request from the Department, and count carefully. We can check your calculation before you apply.
Do children need to sit the test?
Children under 16 are usually included in a parent’s application and do not sit the test.
Can I keep my other citizenship?
Australia allows dual citizenship, but your other country may not. Check the rules of your other country.
What happens after approval?
You attend a citizenship ceremony and make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. You become a citizen on the day of the ceremony.
Related visas and guides
Talk to a registered migration agent
Study Mate Migration is led by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899). We help clients across Australia and overseas from our office in Adelaide, South Australia.
This is general information only and is not legal advice. Visa costs are approximate and vary with your circumstances, number of applicants and government changes; extra costs such as skills assessments, English tests, health checks and police certificates may also apply. Check the Department of Home Affairs website or speak with us for a current quote before you apply.
