How Many Years Does it Take to Become an Australian Citizen?
Becoming an Australian citizen is a dream for many individuals around the world. The multicultural society, excellent quality of life, and numerous opportunities make Australia an attractive destination for those seeking a new home. If you are also considering making Australia your permanent residence and ultimately becoming an Australian citizen, you may be wondering how long the process takes. In this blog post, we will outline the different pathways to Australian citizenship and the timeframes associated with each one.
Australian Citizenship Pathways
There are several pathways to Australian citizenship, and the time it takes to become a citizen can vary depending on the pathway you choose and your individual circumstances. The common pathways include:
- Migration as a Skilled Worker: If you are a skilled worker and looking to migrate to Australia, you can apply for a skilled visa. Once you have lived in Australia for four years on the skilled visa and have been a permanent resident for at least one year, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
- Spouse or Partner Visa: If you are married to or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for a spouse or partner visa. After living in Australia on this visa for four years and holding a permanent residency for at least one year, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
- Family Visa: Individuals who have close family members who are Australian citizens or permanent residents can apply for a family visa. Similar to the previous pathways, you will need to have lived in Australia for a minimum of four years on this visa and held a permanent residency for one year to be eligible for Australian citizenship.
Timeframes for Australian Citizenship
The timeframes mentioned below refer to the general waiting period after you have lodged your application for Australian citizenship:
- Skilled Worker Pathway: As a skilled worker, after living in Australia for four years on a skilled visa, you can apply for Australian citizenship. The processing time for citizenship applications is typically between 12 to 24 months.
- Spouse or Partner Visa Pathway: If you are on a spouse or partner visa, you need to have lived in Australia for four years before applying for citizenship. The processing time for these applications also ranges from 12 to 24 months.
- Family Visa Pathway: Similar to the previous pathways, you must have lived in Australia for four years on a family visa before applying for citizenship. The processing time remains the same, taking 12 to 24 months.
FAQs
Q: Are there any exceptions to the waiting period for Australian citizenship?
A: Yes, certain exceptions can apply, shortening the waiting period. If you are a New Zealand citizen living in Australia, you may be eligible for the streamlined pathway to citizenship. Under this pathway, you can apply for citizenship after living in Australia for at least one year as a permanent resident. Additionally, individuals who are serving in the Australian Defense Force may also have a streamlined pathway, requiring a shorter waiting period.
Q: Can I travel outside of Australia during the waiting period for citizenship?
A: Yes, you can travel outside of Australia during the waiting period; however, it is crucial to ensure that you continue to meet the residency requirements. If you are absent from Australia for an extended period, it may affect your eligibility for citizenship.
Remember, the information provided in this blog post serves as a general guide. The specific timeframes and requirements for Australian citizenship can vary based on individual circumstances. For accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult with the Department of Home Affairs or seek professional advice.
