Australian citizenship is the dream of many residents. As soon as they become permanent residents, they hear that after 1 year they will be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship. However, it’s not as simple as that.
To be eligible for the Australian Citizenship by conferral, meaning the process in which a non-Australian citizen voluntarily becomes Australian citizen, you must meet additional eligibility requirements:
- Have been a permanent for at least the last 12 months
This is indeed a requirement. Your last 12 months immediately before applying for citizenship must be as a permanent resident.
- Have lawfully resided in Australia for at least the last 4 years
This is where many get confused. The requirement is to reside in Australia for at least 4 years prior to the citizenship application, either as temporary or permanent resident.
However, you must comply with the first requirement of the last 12 months as PR before applying for citizenship. This means that the first 3 years can be as a temporary resident and the last year as a permanent resident.
For example, you came to Australia sponsored by a company under the Subclass 482 visa and, after 2 years on this visa, you became eligible to transition to Subclass 186 TRT (PR visa), you would become eligible to apply for citizenship after 2 years on the Subclass 186 (2 years as a TR + 2 Years as a PR = 4 years residing in Australia, with the last 12 months as a permanent resident).
- Not have been outside Australia for more than a total of 1 year in the last 4 years (and no more than 90 days during the last 12 months)
During the 4 years of residence, you cannot be out of the country for more than a year, regardless of the reason. It’s strongly advised to calculate your days abroad and keep a record of them to avoid miscounting.
Attention: During your last 12 months prior to your citizenship application, you are allowed to spend a maximum of 90 days abroad.
- Be likely to reside in, or maintain a close and continuing connection with Australia
You need to demonstrate your intention to stay in Australia and build your life here, like other Australian citizens.
- If aged 18 years of older, be of good character
You must keep a clean police record and not pose a risk to Australian society.
If you are in doubt about your eligibility for Australian citizenship, consult an immigration lawyer or registered migration agent of your trust.