Australian citizenship by conferral

Four-year residence baseline

Normally, live in Australia lawfully for the four years immediately before applying, including the final 12 months as a permanent resident. These are qualifying residence requirements, not a four-year processing promise.

Absences and New Zealand status

Ordinary absences must total no more than 12 months in the four years, including no more than 90 days in the final year. New Zealand Special Category Visa holders can count as permanent residents for citizenship; the form specifies their qualifying dates and separate subclass 189 backdating rules.

Status, character and continuing connection

Permanent-resident status is required at application and decision. Applicants must be of good character and likely to live in Australia or retain a close, continuing connection. Ordinary applicants generally must be in Australia for approval; statutory exceptions are limited.

English and citizenship knowledge

The general route requires basic English and knowledge of Australia and citizenship responsibilities, demonstrated through successful completion of the approved citizenship test. Separate provisions cover applicants aged 60 or over and specified impairments or incapacity. No CEFR equivalence is established here.

Approval and pledge

Eligibility does not guarantee approval. Under the ordinary route, citizenship begins after approval and the required pledge; qualifying incapacity and other statutory exceptions have different pledge rules.

Other citizenship may be retained

Australia permits its citizens to hold another citizenship when the other country's law allows it. Australian permission does not establish retention under that other law.