AUSTRALIAN CITIZENSHIP
BY DESCENT or BY CONFERRAL

There are several different ways to become a citizen of Australia. The most common ways are by conferral or by descent.

Have been born outside Australia
Ensure that the person you are claiming descent from was your parent at the time of your birth and was also an Australian Citizen at the time of your birth
Be of good character

BY CONFERRAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Be a permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen for the past 12 months
Intend to live in Australia or maintain a lasting link with Australia whilst overseas
Have been living in Australia on a valid visa for the past 4 years
Be of good character
Pass a Citizenship Test (if you’re between 18 and 59); English language, values, responsibilities
Be away from Australia for no more than 12 months in total in the past 4 years, including no more than 90 days in total in the past 12 months

You are joining a unique community
You can vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum
You can apply for children born overseas to become Australian citizens by descent
You can apply for a job in the Australian Public Service or in the Australian Defence Force
You can seek election to parliament
You can apply for an Australian passport and re-enter Australia freely
You can ask for consular assistance from an Australian official while overseas