Being an Australian citizen is one of the dreams of most immigrants, more so those who have ever studied in the nation. The nation is full of opportunities where one can explore and make a living out of many things. Once a person becomes a citizen, one becomes entitled to many things that citizens of a nation are accrued to.
For instance, one can freely participate in the election or own property in the nation. However, this does not come automatically, especially if you were not born an Australian. In other words, there are some legal requirements you may need to fulfill before you attain your citizenship as an Australian.
Guide to Becoming a Citizen in Australia
The following are some of the means you can embrace to become an Australian citizen.
General Eligibility
Generally, people over 18 must apply for Australian citizenship, especially those born in the nation. Additionally, you must pass a citizenship test, especially if you are less than 60. Other aspects include being a permanent resident at the time of application. Also, you need to be a permanent member of the nation at the time of application.
It means you will be required to satisfy all the resident requirements before applying for this citizenship. In addition, you need to be sure of staying in the nation for more than three years. Above all, you need to be of good character as this can cause your deportation, especially if you are from nations known for criminal activities such as gun violence.
Residence Requirements
Any adult who has become a permanent resident since July 2007 must have stayed in Australia for at least four years before considering applying for the nation’s citizenship. Additionally, in the entire period, you need to be absent in the nation for not more than 12 months.
In addition, in the 12 months before applying for citizenship, your absence in the nation should not exceed three months. By doing so, you will have qualified to stay in the nation and, above all, become a permanent citizen.
Citizenship Test
Suppose you satisfy all the general eligibility criteria and the residence requirements. In that case, you will be subjected to a citizenship test to help determine whether you qualify as an Australian citizen. You need to pass this test more so if you do not have any hearing or speaking disability issues.
In addition, if you are an adult between 18 and 60, be prepared to take this test as you will not qualify for the nation’s citizenship. The test is not hard, but it is used to help citizens understand all the values, traditions, history, and national symbols in Australia. The test and other residence requirements will help satisfy the registration department, especially if you have not been born or raised in Australia.
Bottom Line:
Once you gain Australian citizenship, you will be eligible for some privileges, such as applying for a passport to help you leave or exit the nation without applying for a return visa. In addition, you can comfortably work in the nation, including being a public servant.