Every year, millions of people fly into Australia seeking greener pastures, new adventures, or even better education. While some people are only interested in short-term stays, others see the long-term opportunity and begin to make plans to make their residence permanent.
If you belong to this second group of people, then you’re in the right place. In a bid to give you all the perks that an Australian citizen enjoys, we’ve come up with a detailed guide to help you bag citizenship on your very first attempt. We assure you that after your visit here, you’ll have much more clarity on the process involved in becoming an Australian citizen.
Eligibility for Citizenship
Here are the elements that increase your chances of qualifying for Australian citizenship:
- Be a resident of Australia for at least four years.
- Have lived in Australia for at least 12 months in the last 18 months before applying.
- Be able to speak, read, write, and understand basic English.
- Have a basic knowledge of Australian history, culture, and values.
- Have a good character and be in good health.
- Have not been convicted of a serious crime.
- Be able to support yourself and your dependents financially.
- Have a genuine commitment to living in Australia.
- Have renounced your previous citizenship (if applicable).
Perks of an Australian Citizenship
Here are some benefits to which Australian citizens are entitled. When you get citizenship, you’ll be entitled to them as well.
- The right to vote in Australian elections
- The right to hold public office
- The right to travel with an Australian passport
- The right to live and work in Australia permanently
- The right to access Australian healthcare and education
- The right to social security benefits
- The right to be protected by Australian law
- The right to participate in Australian culture and society
- The right to represent Australia in international forums
Steps to Get Australian Citizenship
The following is a rundown of the steps involved in obtaining Australian citizenship:
1. Check your eligibility:
You must meet the eligibility requirements for Australian citizenship before you can apply. These requirements include being a permanent resident of Australia for at least four years, having lived in Australia for at least 12 months in the last 18 months before applying, and being able to speak, read, write, and understand basic English.
2. Meet the residency requirements:
You must have lived in Australia for at least four years as a permanent resident. This includes any time you have spent in Australia as a temporary resident, student, or visitor.
3. Meet the English language requirements:
You must be able to speak, read, write, and understand basic English. You’ll have to prove your proficiency by taking an approved English language test.
4. Meet the knowledge requirements:
You must have a basic knowledge of Australian history, culture, and values. You can demonstrate your knowledge by passing the Australian citizenship test.
5. Apply for citizenship:
Once you meet all the requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship. You can apply online or by mail.
6. Attend an interview:
If your application is successful, you will be invited to attend an interview with a citizenship officer. The interview will assess your understanding of Australian history, culture, and values and your commitment to living in Australia.
7. Take the oath of allegiance:
If you pass the interview, you will be invited to take the oath of allegiance to Australia. This is a formal ceremony where you pledge your loyalty to Australia and its laws.
8. Receive your citizenship certificate:
Once you have taken the oath of allegiance, you will be issued with a citizenship certificate. This is your proof of Australian citizenship.
Wrapping Up
A citizenship practice test is your best shot at taking the Australian citizenship exam. This test is designed to give you a firsthand experience of all that the actual exam entails. You can practice with it for as long as you want. With ample Australian citizenship test practice, you’ll feel confident in yourself and your abilities. There are no charges, so you have nothing to lose.
