Permanent residents can live, study, and work indefinitely in Australia but cannot vote or hold an Australian passport.
Australian Citizenship
Australian Citizenship
Becoming an Australian citizen is a major milestone that provides a sense of belonging, security, and full legal rights. Citizenship grants privileges such as the right to vote, hold an Australian passport, and enjoy unrestricted residency. However, the application process requires careful attention to avoid unnecessary delays or refusals.
Australian citizenship is most commonly obtained by conferral or descent, though other pathways may apply based on personal circumstances. Our specialist team can assist you throughout the entire application process.
Security & Rights
Sense of Belonging
Multiple Pathways
Basic Citizenship Eligibility Criteria
Residence Requirement
You must have lived in Australia for 4 years on a valid visa.
Permanent Residency
You must have been a permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen for 12 months.
Absence Limits
No more than 12 months outside Australia in 4 years and 90 days in the past 12 months.
Character Requirement
Applicants aged 18+ must meet the good character criteria.
Pathways to Australian Citizenship
Citizenship by Conferral
For permanent residents who meet residence, character, and test requirements. This is the most common pathway for migrants.
Citizenship by Descent
For individuals born overseas to an Australian citizen parent. Applies to children born via approved surrogacy arrangements.
Citizenship for NZ Citizens
From 1 July 2023, a direct pathway exists for many New Zealand SCV (Subclass 444) holders residing in Australia.
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Additional Citizenship Categories
Exemptions to Residency
- • Defence Force Members: May qualify for residency exemptions.
- • Ministerial Discretion: For exceptional circumstances only.
- • Frequent Travellers: Applies to people whose work requires regular overseas travel.
Circumstantial Pathways
- • Adopted Children: Overseas adoptions by Australian citizens.
- • Former Citizens: People who lost their citizenship under historical provisions.
- • Stateless Children: Born in Australia without access to another nationality.
Australian Citizenship – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 1. What does “permanent resident” mean?
- 2. How long can I stay outside Australia as a permanent resident?You may travel freely for five years from the date PR is granted. After that, an RRV is required unless you obtain citizenship.
- 3. How do I become a permanent resident?Permanent residency can be obtained through skilled migration, partner visas, employer sponsorship, business visas, and other pathways.
- 4. Can New Zealand citizens apply for PR?Yes, through specific PR pathways or via the direct citizenship pathway available from 1 July 2023.
- 5. What is the difference between a green card and Australian PR?A U.S. green card confers permanent residence. Australia does not issue a card — residency is tracked through visa records.
- 6. How much does permanent residency cost?Costs vary depending on your visa pathway. A consultation can help determine exact charges for your situation.