Becoming an Australian citizen is a big step. For most permanent residents, the path there is called citizenship by conferral.

Have you lived in Australia for years? Have you built your life here? This guide explains citizenship by conferral in plain terms. It covers who can apply, what you need, and how the process works in 2026.

At Arch Migration, we help permanent residents with their citizenship by conferral application. We support you from the first step to the final ceremony.

What Is Citizenship by Conferral?

Citizenship by conferral is the main path for most migrants. It applies if you have lived and worked in Australia on a permanent visa. It is not the same as:

  • Citizenship by birth (born in Australia before 20 August 1986)
  • Citizenship by descent (born overseas to an Australian citizen parent)
  • Resumption of citizenship (for former citizens)

Citizenship by conferral is the formal process by which a permanent resident becomes an Australian citizen. If you hold permanent residency, this path likely applies to you.

Who Can Apply?

You must be a permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen, both when you apply and when the Department decides. A few more requirements also apply.

Eligibility Requirements

The Residence Rule

This part often confuses people. Here it is in simple terms.

You need four years of lawful residence in Australia. This must include the last 12 months as a permanent resident. You also cannot have been away from Australia for:

  • More than 12 months total across those four years
  • More than 90 days in the final 12 months

Use the official Home Affairs Residence Calculator to check your dates. Time overseas can push back your eligibility date.Some special rules also apply for certain New Zealand citizens, spouse or partner absences, admin errors, and defence service.Get expert advice if your case is complex.

Good Character

You must show good character if you are 18 or older. This means being honest, respecting the law, and acting in line with Australian values. A serious criminal record may stop your application.

The Citizenship Test

Most applicants must pass a test. It has 20 questions. You need a score of at least 75% to pass, and all five values questions must be correct.Study the official “Our Common Bond” booklet to prepare.

Children in Your Application

Do you have children under 16? They can often join your application without meeting the residency rule themselves. This makes family applications simpler.

Fees and Processing Times in 2026

Fees change over time, so check the current amount before you apply.From 1 July 2026, the standard fee rose from $575 to $595, in line with CPI.Concession fees may apply. Children on a parent’s application are often exempt.

Wait times are improving. Waits once ran past 20 months in 2022 and 2023. As of March 2026, the Department lists 14 to 17 months for standard applications. More staff and better processes have driven this change.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Check your eligibility. Confirm your PR status. Work out your residence history against the four-year rule.

Step 2: Gather your documents. You’ll need ID documents, photos, and character checks. Police certificates may be needed from any country where you lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.

Step 3: Lodge your application. Submit it online with your documents and fee.

Step 4: Sit the citizenship test. The Department books this after you apply, if needed.

Step 5: Wait for a decision. The Department checks your residence, character, and test result.

Step 6: Attend your ceremony. Your application is approved. What happens next? You attend a citizenship ceremony and make the Pledge of Commitment. This is the moment you become an Australian citizen.

How This Fits Your PR Journey

Citizenship by conferral is often the last step in a longer journey. That journey usually starts with a skilled partner, or business visa, and leads to PR first.

Not sure which visa path suits you? Read other pillar guide, Permanent Residency Australia: Complete Guide to Australian PR Pathways, Eligibility & Visa Options in 2026, to see every option and how it can lead to citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How long must I live in Australia before applying?

You need four years of lawful residence, including the last 12 months as a permanent resident, with limited time overseas.

  1. Can my children join my application?

Yes. Children under 16 can usually join. They don’t need to meet the residence rule on their own.

  1. What if I fail the citizenship test?

You can usually retake it. Study the official booklet well to boost your chances.

  1. How much does it cost in 2026?

 Fees rose in 2026 in line with CPI. Check the current fee before you apply, as concessions may apply.

  1. How long does it take?

Most standard applications now take 14 to 17 months, a big improvement on past years.

Ready to Apply?

Do the rules feel confusing? Arch Migration can help. We guide your citizenship by conferral application from start to finish, right through to your ceremony.

Contact Arch Migration today for a personalised citizenship by conferral consultation.

Email:enquire@amaes.com.au

Address:Como Centre, Level 19, 299 Toorak Road, South Yarra, VIC 3141 

Phone no:+61 1300 050 536