Citizenship by conferral

Applying to become an Australian citizen, usually as a permanent resident.

Conferral

Citizenship by conferral is an application to become a citizen. It is decided under the Australian Citizenship Act.

The applicant is usually a permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
The usual residence requirement is four years lawfully in Australia, including 12 months as a permanent resident, with limits on time spent overseas.
Special residence rules apply to some people.
The identity of the applicant can be verified.
The character requirement is met.
Most applicants aged 18 to 59 sit the citizenship test.
The person intends to live in Australia, or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia.
The pledge of commitment is made if the application is approved.

The four years are counted back from the date of the application.
Absences matter. There is a limit on days overseas in the four years, and a tighter limit in the 12 months as a permanent resident.
We count the residence from the movement records before an application is lodged.

The test covers knowledge of Australia and an understanding of the pledge, for applicants who have to sit it.
Some ages and some circumstances are exempt from the test.
Approval is followed by a ceremony and the pledge, unless the person is exempt from the pledge.

Plain-language explanations so you can make informed decisions about your migration options.

Tailored strategies that reflect your unique circumstances, goals and timeframe.

Focused on achieving the strongest available outcome through ethical, evidence-based practice.

Costs explained upfront before work begins — no surprises, ever.

We will count the residence and tell you whether the application is ready, including character issues.