Australian citizenship is the final step after permanent residence. Once you are a citizen, you can vote, access the full range of government services, obtain an Australian passport and re-enter Australia without a visa.
Is this your situation?
You have been a permanent resident for a while and you think you might be eligible for citizenship, but you are not sure whether your absences from Australia have been too long. Or you are not sure whether a past issue (an old conviction, a tax problem, or something else) will affect your character assessment.
Citizenship by conferral
This is the most common pathway. You need to have been a permanent resident for at least one year at the time of application. You must have lived in Australia for at least four years before the application, including at least one year as a permanent resident. Absences from Australia during this period are allowed, but you cannot have been absent for more than 12 months total in the four years, or more than 90 days in the 12 months before applying.
Where people get tripped up
The residence calculation is where most problems arise. If you travel frequently for work or family, your absences can add up quickly. A two-week trip home every three months adds up to over 90 days in a year. Count your days before you apply.
The character test at the citizenship stage can also cause problems if you have a criminal record, even a minor one. An old drink-driving conviction or a shoplifting charge from years ago may need to be disclosed and addressed.
The citizenship test
You need to answer 75% of questions correctly, including all questions about Australian values. Study materials are available from the Department of Home Affairs website. Most people pass without difficulty if they prepare.
Citizenship by descent
If you were born outside Australia and one of your parents was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth, you may be eligible for citizenship by descent. This is a registration process rather than an application for conferral.
How Robbie Toor (MARN 1170356) helps
Robbie assists with citizenship applications, including calculating your residence requirement (particularly counting absences), preparing the application and advising on any character issues.