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Australian Citizenship
Australian citizenship is an important step in your personal migration story. As a citizen of Australia, you have the right to vote and have a say in Australia’s future. If you are not yet an Australian citizen, now is the time to check if you are eligible.
Permanent residents need to pay and apply every 5 years for a Resident Return Visa in order to enter Australia after time offshore. Once you are an Australian citizen, you may apply for an Australian passport which will allow you to leave and return to Australia indefinitely.
You may be eligible to become an Australian Citizen if....
· You are in Australia as a permanent resident;
· You are a spouse or partner of an Australian citizen;
· You are a New Zealand citizen living in Australia;
· You Arrived in Australia as a Refugee;
· You are a child of a former Australian citizen;
· You were born overseas to an Australian citizen;
· You were adopted by an Australian citizen; or
· You lost or gave up your Australian citizenship.
Privileges: As an Australian Citizen you have the right to:
- Vote in the federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum;
- Apply to work in the Australian Public Service or in the Australian Defence; Force;
- Seek election to parliament;
- Apply for an Australian passport and re-enter Australia freely;
- Receive help from an Australian official while overseas;
- Register children born overseas an Australian citizens by descent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I still keep the passport of my home country and have a passport for Australia?
A. Yes, if your country allows for it.
Q. Do I lose my citizenship from my home country?
A. Australia allows people to hold dual citizenship.
Q. How long does it take to process my application?
A. The average processing time is currently 12 weeks. After approval is given, you will be invited to attend a ceremony to take your “Pledge” within 6 months and will receive your Citizenship Certificate at the ceremony.
Q. The forms are complicated and I don’t understand the questions.
A. Please contact Kah Lawyers if we can be of assistance with your citizenship application.
Kah Lawyers
17 August 2010.
Disclaimer: The information provided is of a general nature and may not apply under all circumstances. It should not be construed as legal advice and does not establish a solicitor-client relationship.
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