Australian Citizenship

Becoming an Australian citizen is an important milestone for many permanent residents and families who have built their life in Australia. Australian citizenship may provide a greater sense of security, belonging and participation in Australian community life.

Shada Migration Services assists clients with Australian citizenship eligibility reviews, application preparation and complex citizenship matters, including cases involving residence issues, travel absences, character concerns or special circumstances.

Who Can Apply for Australian Citizenship?

Many applicants apply for Australian citizenship by conferral. In general, applicants must meet requirements relating to permanent residence, lawful residence in Australia, travel absences and good character.

The general residence requirement commonly includes:

• living in Australia on a valid visa for at least 4 years before applying;
• holding permanent residence for at least 12 months before applying;
• not being outside Australia for more than 12 months in the last 4 years; and
• not being outside Australia for more than 90 days in the last 12 months before applying.

Some applicants may have different requirements or special considerations depending on their age, visa history, New Zealand citizen status, family circumstances or other personal circumstances.

Common Citizenship Issues We Assist With

Citizenship applications can appear simple, but complications may arise when an applicant’s immigration history or personal circumstances require closer review.

• excessive travel outside Australia;
• uncertainty about permanent residence status;
• visa refusal or cancellation history;
• criminal convictions or pending charges;
• New Zealand citizen and Special Category Visa issues;
• applications for children or applicants under 18;
• possible citizenship by descent or parent-related pathways; and
• medical conditions that may affect the citizenship test or interview.

How We Can Help

Our office can review your circumstances and provide professional assistance with your citizenship matter, including:

• preliminary citizenship eligibility assessments;
• review of residence and travel history;
• assessment of permanent residence and visa history;
• review of character or disclosure issues;
• preparation and lodgement of citizenship applications;
• responding to Department requests for further information; and
• advice about timing and next steps.