Are you an Indian dreaming of becoming an Australian citizen? Discover the steps, requirements, and everything you need to know about making Australia your new home. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey towards Australian citizenship! In this blog, we'll guide you through the process of how to get Australian Citizenship for Indians.

How To Apply for Australian Citizenship for Indians?

To attain Australian citizenship, you'll need to submit a fully filled application form along with the necessary supporting documents and payment of the relevant fee to the Department of Home Affairs (DOHA). Typically, you'll also need to participate in an interview and successfully pass a citizenship test as prerequisites for the approval of your application.

The citizenship test is designed to evaluate your understanding of Australia's history, and society, as well as the rights and duties that come with being an Australian citizen. The process can be divided into 5 easy steps, they are:

1. Step 1. Complete Online Form: The first step on your journey to Australian citizenship is to complete an online form. This form is typically available on the Australian government's official website. You'll need to provide personal information, supporting documents, and details about your current visa status.
2. Step 2. Receive Citizenship Eligibility Advice: After submitting the online form, you'll receive advice regarding your eligibility for Australian citizenship. This advice will be based on your provided information, visa status, and other relevant factors. It's crucial to meet the eligibility criteria before proceeding further.
3. Step 3. Full Representation & Management (Optional): Some individuals may choose to seek professional assistance from migration agents or lawyers who specialize in citizenship applications. While this step is optional, it can be helpful, especially if you have a complex case or are unsure about the process.
4. Step 4. Lodgement of Citizenship Application: If you decide not to use professional representation, you'll need to lodge your citizenship application yourself. This step involves submitting the required documents, and forms, and paying the government fees associated with your application. The fees may vary depending on your circumstances.
5. Step 5. Citizenship Test & Ceremony: Once your application is processed and approved, you may be required to sit for the Australian Citizenship Test. This test evaluates your knowledge of Australia, its culture, values, and history. Upon passing the test, you'll be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony where you'll take the Australian Citizenship Pledge, officially becoming an Australian citizen.

Ways To Get Australian Citizenship: Australian Citizenship Requirements

Obtaining Australian citizenship can follow various pathways, often starting with a permanent residency visa. This visa grants you the freedom to live, work, and study in Australia without restrictions.

However, permanent residents may need official permission to return to the country if they leave. They cannot vote or apply for government positions. Permanent residency visas can be obtained through family connections, as a migrant, or for humanitarian reasons.

If you're wondering how to get Australian citizenship after obtaining permanent residency, there are certain Australian Citizenship Requirements and eligibility criteria for a successful process.

• Passing the citizenship test (unless you're over 60 years old).
• Being a permanent resident at the time of application.
• Meeting residency requirements.
• Demonstrating a commitment to stay in or maintain a close association with Australia.
• Proving good character.

For adults who became permanent residents on or after July 1, 2007, this typically involves residing in Australia for a total of four years, including 12 months as a permanent resident and limited absences from the country.

Automatic citizenship is granted to individuals born in Australia with at least one parent who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident. They need to apply for a passport and provide the necessary documents.

If you were born outside of Australia but have at least one Australian citizen parent, you can pursue citizenship through dual citizenship or by meeting specific criteria, including demonstrating good character and passing the citizenship test.

1. Ways to Get Australian Citizenship for New Zealand Citizens

For New Zealand citizens and permanent residents, Australian citizenship can be obtained under various circumstances, including age-specific criteria, child migration schemes, spouse/partner relationships, eligible New Zealand citizens, and humanitarian migrants or refugees.

2. Ways to Get Australian Citizenship by Conferral:

Australian citizenship, obtaining citizenship "by conferral" means acquiring it through a formal application process, meeting specific eligibility criteria, and being granted the status of an Australian citizen. You're eligible for citizenship by conferral if you fall into these categories:

• A permanent resident aged 60 or older.
• A migrant under the Commonwealth Child Migration Scheme.
• The spouse or partner of an Australian citizen.
• An eligible citizen of New Zealand.
• A humanitarian or refugee migrant.
• Born abroad to an Australian citizen parent.
• Adopted by an Australian citizen under the Full Hague Adoption Convention or bilateral agreement.
• Born before Papua's independence in 1975.

3. Ways to get Australian Sponsorship by Investment:

Investment refers to the allocation of money, resources, or assets with the expectation of generating future income, profit, or appreciation in value. It involves committing capital into various ventures or financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds, real estate, or businesses. You can obtain citizenship through investment if you meet any of these criteria:

• Investing a minimum of AUD 200,000 in commercializing a product or service in the country (specific investor category).
• Demonstrating a successful business history with net assets of AUD 800,000.
• Making an approved investment of AUD 1.5 million with net assets totaling AUD 2.5 million.
• Making an approved investment of AUD 5 million.
• Making an approved investment of AUD 15 million.

Documents Required for an Australian Citizenship

Documents like passports and birth certificates, residency evidence showcasing your commitment to Australia, character assessments through police clearances, and even language proficiency proof play a crucial role in shaping your Australian Citizenship application. The required documents with respect to the criteria are:

1. Identity Documents: A certified copy of your current passport, Copies of all previous passports (if applicable), A copy of your birth certificate, Marriage certificate (if applicable), and Change of name certificate (if applicable).
2. Residency Documents: Evidence of your permanent residency status in Australia, Copies of visas and arrival stamps showing your entry and residence in Australia, Rental or lease agreements, utility bills, or other documents to demonstrate your residency in Australia over the required period.
3. Character Documents: Police clearance certificates or checks from all countries where you have lived for 12 months or more in the past ten years since turning 16.
4. English Language Proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency, such as results from an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS, PTE Academic).
5. Citizenship Test Certificate: A certificate confirming successful completion of the Australian citizenship test.
6. Child's Documents: Birth certificates for children applying with you, Passport copies for children.

Also read: Australia Minimum Wages for International Students in 2023

Responsibilities and Privileges of Australian Citizenship

As an Australian citizen, you are granted a range of valuable privileges that significantly enhance your rights and opportunities within the country. These privileges benefits Indians with Australian Citizenship with:

1. Democratic Participation: You have the fundamental right to vote in both Federal and State or territory elections, as well as in referendums, allowing you to actively shape the nation's future through the democratic process.
2. Career Opportunities: Being an Australian citizen opens doors to employment within the Australian Public Service and the Australian Defence Force, offering you the chance to serve your country and pursue fulfilling careers.
3. Political Involvement: You possess the eligibility to run for public office and seek election to parliament, becoming a key contributor to the nation's governance and decision-making processes.
4. Travel Convenience: You can easily apply for an Australian passport, facilitating your travel both domestically and abroad. This passport serves as a powerful tool for hassle-free international mobility.
5. Embassy Support: While traveling or residing overseas, you can rely on the assistance of Australian embassies and consulates in case of emergencies or other consular services. This ensures your safety and well-being wherever you are in the world.
6. Citizenship by Descent: If you have children born overseas, you have the privilege of registering them as Australian citizens by descent, ensuring they inherit the benefits of Australian citizenship, even if they were not born within the country's borders.