Thinking of building your future in Australia and have secured your Australian Permanent Residency? Well, Congratulations! That’s a major milestone towards becoming an Australian citizen after PR.
But for many migrants, the ultimate goal is to obtain Australian Citizenship, as it allows them to vote, access certain government jobs, and enjoy the lifetime security of holding an Australian passport. If you already have Permanent Residency (PR), you’re on the right track! Wondering how long does it takes to get Australian Citizenship after Permanent Residency? Now, let’s walk through what it really takes to become an Aussie citizen.
In this article, we will discuss:
- Eligibility Criteria to obtain Citizenship
- How to apply for Australian Citizenship after PR
- What is the Waiting Period for Australian citizenship after PR?
Are you eligible for Australian citizenship for PR holders? Let’s Explore!
Residency Requirements for Australian Citizenship
Before you can apply for citizenship, you must meet the general residency requirement. This is often referred to as the “four-year rule.” First, you must’ve lived in Australia lawfully for at least four years before applying, and second, during those four years, you must’ve held a valid visa and permanent residency for at least 12 months immediately before your application.
Although this can vary on a case-by-case basis, whether where the applicant is applying from, if the profile is ready for submission, and the visa that they had applied for in the past and other parameters. To know more about the residency requirements, feel free to reach out to Visafast Migration Consultancy.
from applicant to applicant. It depends on whether the applicant is applying from offshore, whether their profile is ready for submission, and what kind of visa they are applying for.
What Does “Good Character” Mean for Citizenship?
Generally, if you are 18 years or above, you must be assessed as of good character. There should not be any serious criminal convictions, no significant immigration offences, and you must have complied with Australian laws.
Other Eligibility Requirements for PR Holders
Other eligibility criteria include knowledge of English and the Australian language, passing the citizenship test, a strong intention to live in Australia, and a lawful identity proof.
How to Apply for Australian Citizenship After PR (Step-by-Step)
Once the eligibility is established, the application process can be further continued. Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply.
Step 1: Gather your documents
Ensure you provide authentic and accurate documents to expedite the process. You’ll need proof of identity, travel records, permanent residency evidence, photographs, and certified copies of all of these.
Step 2: Complete the Application
You can apply for citizenship via an online website or offline by submitting physical documentation. The easiest way is to create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website and complete Form 1300t online (General Eligibility).
Step 3: Payment of fees and waiting for Approval
Finish off the application by paying off standard fees and wait for the application to be approved. The fees structure is as follows:
The general application fee for Australian citizenship by conferral (general eligibility) is AUD 575. There is a concession fee of AUD 80 for eligible applicants. While, children under 16 applying on the same form as a responsible parent are not charged. For other situations (Form 1290), the fee is AUD 350 and the concession fee is AUD 40, while the clause for children remains the same. This is subject to change as per updates from DHA.
Step 4: Attend the Interview and Citizenship Test
Once you’ve received an invitation for an appointment from the department, you need to attend the interview and take the citizenship test. If everything goes right, the processing usually takes 9-18 months, and after that, you can attend the Citizenship Ceremony.
How Long It Takes to Get Australian Citizenship
If you have applied for Australian citizenship by conferral:
- 90% of applications are processed within 12 months
- 90% of approved applicants will have the opportunity to attend a ceremony within 6 months of approval.
If you have applied for Australian citizenship by descent, 90% of applications are processed within 5 months.
If you have applied for Evidence of Australian citizenship, 90% of applications are processed within 21 days. (Department of Home Affairs)
Final Thoughts: From PR to Proud Aussie
Becoming an Australian citizen isn’t just a legal step — it’s a celebration of your journey, your commitment, and your future. With patience, preparation, and a touch of persistence, you’ll soon be raising your right hand at your citizenship ceremony and proudly calling Australia home.
If you're unsure about meeting the residency criteria or have complex travel histories, speaking with professionals like Visafast Migration Consultation can clarify your eligibility.
Our experienced team includes some of the best migration lawyers in Adelaide, ready to assist with documentation, PR-to-citizenship strategies, and appeals if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to wait to apply for Australian citizenship after getting PR?
Before applying for an Australian visa, you must have lived in Australia lawfully for at least 4 years, and at least 12 months of those 4 years must be as a permanent resident.
What are the requirements for Australian citizenship after PR?
A “four-year rule” is required for citizenship. First, you must’ve lived in Australia lawfully for at least four years before applying, and second, during those four years, you must’ve held a valid visa and permanent Residency for at least 12 months immediately before your application.
How long does the Australian citizenship process take after applying?
Generally, it takes 9 to 18 months for the citizenship process to complete, depending on how complete and accurate your application is, how quickly you can attend the test/interview, and how busy your local council is with ceremonies.
Do I need to take a test to get Australian citizenship?
Yes. Most applicants do need to take a citizenship test. You are exempt from taking the test if you are under 18 or over 60 and have a permanent or severe physical or mental incapacity.
Can I travel while my Australian citizenship application is in progress?
Yes. You can travel overseas while your application is being processed, but you must continue to meet the residence requirements until you lodge your application. Also, make sure to hold a valid visa to re-enter Australia.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws may change, so consult a registered migration agent or legal professional before making any application. Visafast Migration Consultancy is not liable for reliance on this information.
