Are you wondering what is citizenship cost Australia? Note that when checking what is citizenship cost Australia, it is not just the application fees but also other fees apply. Therefore, we will look at what is the total citizenship cost in Australia.
In this article, we will focus on citizenship cost in Australia for citizenship by conferral. Becoming a citizen of Australia by conferral is one of the most common ways of citizenship in the country. When eligible Australian permanent residents or New Zealand citizens meet certain criteria, they can apply for citizenship by conferral.
Citizenship Cost Australia for Citizenship by Conferral
As mentioned above, the application cost is not the only cost when you think of citizenship cost in Australia. But, let’s start with the citizenship application fees. Generally, the applicant must fill out the general eligibility Form 1300T. The same form may not apply for others who do not fall under general eligibility. You can view this form for Australian citizenship to see which application is applicable to you, and view the corresponding application costs.
Note that the cost for applying for Citizenship by Conferral in Australia varies depending on factors such as age, whether the applicant is a child or an adult, and other circumstances. Moreover, in some situations fee concessions also apply.
The application fee for citizens via conferral is $540 as of July 1, 2023. The expenses could change based on your unique situation. Furthermore, the applicant must submit Australian Federal police checks to fulfil character criteria requirements. There are additional charges for this. Likewise, in the event that you have resided abroad for a predetermined period of time, you can also be required to present credentials from foreign police.
Criteria for Citizenship by Conferral
In this section we provide the general criteria for citizenship by conferral. Note that individual circumstances greatly differ. Hence, it is essential to speak with a migration lawyer who can help you assess your specific circumstances and whether you fulfil the following criteria.
1. Residency Requirement
You must have been a permanent resident of Australia for a certain period of time. Generally, you need to have lived in Australia on a valid visa for at least four years before applying for citizenship.
2. Lawful Residence
You had to be a lawful resident of Australia for the entire four years, so you had to follow all immigration rules and laws.
3. Absence from Australia
There are limitations on the amount of time you can spend outside Australia during the four-year period. Usually, you can’t have been absent for more than 12 months in total, with a maximum of 90 days in the 12 months immediately before applying.
4. Good Character
You must meet the character requirements set by the Australian government. This involves providing police clearances and demonstrating that you have a good moral character.
5. English Language Proficiency
Most applicants that are 16 years and older must have a basic knowledge of English. This is typically assessed through a language test or by showing evidence of English language education.
6. Integration
You need to demonstrate that you have a commitment to Australia and an understanding of its values, traditions, and national symbols.
7. Knowledge Test
Some applicants may need to pass a citizenship test that assesses their knowledge of Australia’s history, culture, and government.
Citizenship Cost Australia: FAQs
1. Who is eligible for Citizenship by Conferral?
Permanent residents of Australia, including refugees and New Zealand citizens who have been residing in Australia for a specified period, are eligible to apply for citizenship by conferral. They must also meet residence, language, and character requirements.
2. What are the residence requirements?
Applicants must have been living in Australia as permanent residents for a minimum of four years, including one year as a permanent resident immediately before applying for citizenship.
3. Are there any exemptions for the residence requirements?
Certain exemptions apply, such as if the applicant has been a New Zealand citizen and has lived in Australia for at least five years, or if they are a partner or spouse of an Australian citizen.
4. What is the age requirement for applicants?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for citizenship by conferral.
5. Do applicants need to pass a language test?
Yes. Applicants who are between the ages of 18 and 59 must prove their command of the English language. They may complete a citizenship exam that evaluates their language skills as well as their familiarity with Australia.
6. What is the character requirement?
Applicants must provide police clearance certificates and show good character. Serious criminal offences may lead to the refusal of citizenship.
7. Can children apply with their parents?
Yes, parents m,ay include children under 18 in their citizenship application.
9. How long does the application process take?
Applications are handled over the course of several months, though actual processing periods may differ. Numerous variables, including large application volumes, might cause delays. In most situations, if your application is approved, you will also be required to attend a citizenship ceremony when you will get your citizenship certificate and be asked to swear allegiance to Australia.
10. Is dual citizenship allowed?
Yes, Australia allows dual citizenship, so applicants do not need to renounce their previous citizenships to become Australian citizens (unless the country of their previous citizenship does not allow dual citizenship).
11. How do I apply for Citizenship by Conferral?
Applicants can submit their applications online through the Australian government’s official website (Department of Home Affairs). The website provides detailed guidance on required documents and procedures.
12. What are the benefits of Australian citizenship?
Australian citizens enjoy various benefits, including the right to vote, access to government services and benefits, and the ability to travel on an Australian passport.
Speak With Our Leading Migration Lawyers Today
Our team of immigration lawyers have the experience in helping applicants with lodging both citizenship applications as well as visa applications. Whether you are looking to apply for skilled visas such as permanent residence visas, or temporary work visas, our lawyers can help you.
Australia’s citizenship costs are subject to annual revisions due to government policy and budget modifications. So, you should get in touch with our lawyers to discuss any and all citizenship cost Australia-related expenses.
We can assist you in determining the exact cost based on your unique situation. Moreover, we can also offer some guidance if you were a previous Australian citizen handling “Australian citizenship lost” problems.
For more information on citizenship fees, contact our team today.
