Australian Citizenship

Resident Return Visa

By law, only Australian citizens have an automatic right of entry to Australia. Holders of permanent visas if they choose to travel internationally, must ensure they have a right of re-entry to Australia.

Once you have been granted a permanent visa, the visa gives them the right to live in Australia indefinitely but only provides the right to travel in/out of Australia for a limited period (usually 5 years).

If you leave Australia after your travel validity expires, or it expires when you are outside Australia, you will not be able to return to Australia as a permanent resident. You will need to apply for a Resident Return visa. The Resident Return visa (Subclass 155 and 157) is for current or former Australian permanent residents and former Australian citizens who want to travel overseas and retain their permanent resident status.

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Privileges of becoming an Australian Citizen

Gaining Australian Citizenship provides applicants with a range of privileges, these include:

Citizens have an unrestricted right to enter, live, and work in Australia without needing a visa.

Citizens can sponsor family members for visas, and it may be easier and quicker for their applications to be processed.

Citizens can apply for a job in the Australian Public Service or in the Australian Defence Force.

Citizens can vote in federal and state or territory elections, and referendums.

Citizens can access financial assistance for higher education, such as the Higher Education Loan Program.

Citizens can ask for consular assistance from Australian officials while overseas.

Children of Australian citizens automatically gain citizenship, no matter where they are born.

Citizens have full access to public healthcare, education, and social security, including unemployment benefits and pensions.

These are among the significant privileges included in a successful Citizenship application

Australian Citizenship Application

There are different applications for citizenship. You may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship if you are a:

spouse or partner of an Australian citizen;

migrant to Australia who has obtained permanent residence;

New Zealand citizen living in Australia;

child of a former Australian citizen;

commonwealth Child Migration Scheme arrival;

refugee or humanitarian entrant;

person born in Papua before independence in 1975;

former Australian citizen looking to resume their citizenship;

adopted outside Australia by at least one Australian citizen;

born overseas to an Australian citizen.

You may need to meet the following requirements to be eligible:

be a migrant who is a permanent resident;

likely to reside, or continue to reside, in Australia or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia;

satisfy the residence requirement;

meet character requirements.

Australian Citizenship Test

Most people who apply for citizenship will need to pass a citizenship test to demonstrate that they have a basic knowledge of the English language and an adequate knowledge of Australia – its culture, its customs, its laws and its democratic beliefs and liberties.

There is no additional cost in taking the citizenship test as it is included in your application fee. The test ensures that prospective citizens possess a sufficient understanding of Australia's values, traditions, history, and governmental system. The test comprises 20 multiple-choice questions. To pass the test you must correctly answer all five questions on Australian values and score at least 75%. The test lasts 45 minutes and is conducted in a digital format at your chosen test centre.

Dual Citizenship

Dual citizenship is also a consideration, if the law of the other country permits. Some countries do not recognise dual or multiple citizenship. Since 2002, dual citizenship has been permitted in Australia.

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Apply For a Resident Return Visa

Becoming an Australian citizen is a significant milestone, granting you the right to fully participate in Australian society and enjoy the rights and privileges of being an Australian citizen. The application process involves a few key steps:

Step 1 - Initial Consultation

Book an initial consultation with one of our Registered Migration Agents, where we will discuss your situation and see how we can assist you with your matter.

Step 2 - Application Preparation

Once an agreement has been signed, we will assist you with the application and lodge the application with the Department of Home Affairs. We will prepare a submission to support your application to the Department of Home Affairs

Step 3 - Citizenship Outcome

We’ll be in touch once the Department has come to a decision. If the application isn’t granted, we can appeal on your behalf.

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Can I handle my migration case without a lawyer?

Technically, yes, you can manage your own migration case without a lawyer; however, it is highly recommended to seek professional assistance, especially for complex cases. Canberra Migration has a team of experienced migration consultants who are experts in Australian migration law, citizenship applications, and handling visa refusals. Navigating the intricacies of migration law requires comprehensive knowledge and attention to detail to avoid any costly mistakes or delays. Our consultants stay updated with the latest legislative changes and procedural requirements, ensuring that your application is meticulously prepared and submitted in alignment with all legal standards. Choosing Canberra Migration means leveraging our expertise for a seamless and more efficient migration process, ultimately increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
Can migration lawyers assist with family migration?

Absolutely! Migration lawyers specialize in various visa categories, including family visas, and can help navigate the specific requirements for family migration.
How much does it cost to hire a migration lawyer or Registered migration agent in Canberra?

Fees vary depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of your case. It’s best to discuss this during your initial consultation to understand the total costs involved.
What should I do if my visa application is denied?

If your application is denied, consult with your migration lawyer immediately. They can advise on the best course of action, whether it’s appealing the decision or reapplying.
How long does the visa application process take?

The timeline varies significantly based on the visa type, the complexity of your case, and processing times. Your lawyer can provide estimates based on current trends.
Do you need to pass an English test to become an Australian citizen?

No, You do not need to pass a separate English test to become an Australian Citizen, however, the Australian Citizenship test is conducted in English.
Can you become an Australian citizen if you are over 60 years old?

Yes, there is no age requirement on becoming an Australian citizen. There is no citizenship test required for people applying for Australian citizenship if you are 60 years old or above.
What is the ten year rule for Australian Citizenship?

You may already be an Australian citizen and eligible for Evidence of Australian citizenship if you were born in Australia: and have been ordinarily resident in Australia throughout the first 10 years from your birth.
What are the common reasons citizenship can be refused?

The Department of Immigration may refuse an application for citizenship on the following criteria not satisfied: You are found not to be of good character; Your identity cannot be established; You represent a national security risk; You are unable to satisfy the general or special residence requirements and you are not eligible for an exemption; You have renounced your Australian citizenship within the last 12 months.
What happens if you fail the Australian Citizenship test?

Failing the test does not affect your permanent visa or stop you from living in Australia. If you fail the test, we will book another appointment for you. There is no extra cost for sitting the test again. If you do not pass the test after three appointments, your citizenship application may be refused.