How Long Does Australian Citizenship Take? Timeline and Requirements (2026)
Published 2026-02-14
How Long Does the Australian Citizenship Process Take?
The total timeline from permanent residency to becoming an Australian citizen typically takes 5 to 6 years. This includes the 4-year residency requirement (including 1 year as a permanent resident), application processing time of 5 to 14 months, waiting for the citizenship test appointment (usually 1 to 3 months after application), and attending a citizenship ceremony (1 to 6 months after test approval). Current processing times for citizenship by conferral applications are approximately 8 to 14 months from lodgement to ceremony.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
To apply for Australian citizenship by conferral, you must: be a permanent resident at the time of application and decision, have lived in Australia on a valid visa for 4 years immediately before applying (including the last 12 months as a permanent resident), not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total during the 4-year period (including no more than 90 days in the last 12 months), be of good character, have a basic knowledge of English, and have an understanding of Australian values and civic responsibilities. Special provisions apply to those aged under 18 or over 60.
What Is the Australian Citizenship Test?
The citizenship test is a computer-based multiple-choice exam with 20 questions drawn from the resource booklet 'Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond.' You need to answer at least 75% correctly (15 out of 20) and must correctly answer all 5 questions about Australian values. The test is conducted in English and takes 45 minutes. You can sit the test as many times as needed, and there is no fee for the test itself. Study the official resource booklet thoroughly — it covers Australia's democratic beliefs, laws, government, and national symbols.
How Much Does Citizenship Cost?
The application fee for Australian citizenship by conferral is $490 per person (2025-26). There is no fee for children under 16 included in a parent's application, and no fee for people aged 75 or over. The citizenship test is free. If you engage a migration agent to assist with your citizenship application, expect to pay $500 to $1,500 in professional fees, though many people handle citizenship applications without professional help as the process is more straightforward than most visa applications.
What Happens at the Citizenship Ceremony?
After your application is approved, you must attend a citizenship ceremony to make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. Ceremonies are organised by your local council and typically take place within 6 months of approval, though most occur within 1 to 3 months. You are not an Australian citizen until you make the pledge at the ceremony. At the ceremony, you will receive your Australian Citizenship Certificate. You can then apply for an Australian passport.
Can I Hold Dual Citizenship?
Yes, Australia has permitted dual (or multiple) citizenship since 4 April 2002. Becoming an Australian citizen does not require you to renounce your previous citizenship, though some other countries may not permit dual citizenship on their end. Check your home country's rules regarding dual citizenship before applying. Australian citizens who acquire another citizenship also do not lose their Australian citizenship.
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