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Australia Citizenship Guide 2026

Your pathway from PR to Australian citizen — citizenship test, pledge ceremony, and the Australian passport.

🛤️ Pathway to Citizenship

📋 Step 1: Get PR

Through skilled migration (189/190), employer sponsor (186), partner, or family. PR gives full work/study/Medicare rights.

🏠 Step 2: Residency (4 yrs)

Live in Australia for 4 years total, including at least 1 year as PR. Must be present 8 of 12 months before applying. No absences >90 days.

🦘 Step 3: Apply

Pass citizenship test (75%). Good character check. Pay AUD $490. Attend pledge ceremony (Australian Citizenship Ceremony). Receive certificate.

📝 Citizenship Test

  • Who: Ages 18-59 must take the test. Under 16 and over 60 exempt.
  • Format: 20 multiple-choice questions. 5 "Australian values" questions (MUST get ALL correct). 75% overall.
  • Topics: Democratic beliefs, laws, government, Australian values, history, symbols.
  • Study Guide: "Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond" — free from Home Affairs.
  • Computer-based at test centres across Australia. Can retake if fail.

✅ Benefits

  • 🗳️ Voting: Compulsory in Australia! ($20 fine if you don't vote)
  • 🌐 Australian Passport: 185+ countries visa-free. 6th strongest passport.
  • 🛡️ Cannot be deported: Permanent protection. PR holders can lose status.
  • 🏛️ Government jobs: Access to APS roles requiring citizenship
  • 🌍 Dual Citizenship: Allowed since 2002. Keep your original passport.
  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Pass to children: Children born overseas to Australian citizens get citizenship by descent

💰 Costs

Item Cost (AUD)
Citizenship application $490
Australian passport (adult) $346 (10yr)
English test (if needed) $300+
Total (approximate) $800-$1,200

📖 Explore More

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Immigration

PR Pathways
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Tax

ATO
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Healthcare

Medicare