The final step
Australian Citizenship
The last step of the migration journey: from permanent resident to Australian citizen.
Policy update New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category visa are treated as permanent residents for citizenship purposes.
NZ pathwayEligibility
From permanent resident to citizen.
Residence is counted to the day. We check your travel history against the requirement before you lodge.
The residence requirement
Living in Australia on valid visas for the four years immediately before you apply, holding a permanent visa for the final twelve months. Concessions exist in limited cases.
The requirement in detailTime outside Australia
No more than twelve months away across the four years, and no more than 90 days in the twelve months before you apply.
The absence limits in detailThe citizenship test
Most applicants aged 18 to 59 sit the citizenship test, and good character applies to every adult applicant. You must also intend to keep living in Australia, or keep a close and continuing connection to it. Approval is completed at a ceremony, where you make the Australian Citizenship Pledge.
Test and ceremony in detailCitizenship for New Zealanders
Special Category visa holders are deemed permanent residents for citizenship, many from time they have already spent here. Since July 2023 the pathway runs straight to citizenship, with no permanent visa in between.
The New Zealand pathwayCitizenship by Descent
Born outside Australia to an Australian citizen parent? Citizenship by descent may already be yours to claim, with no residence requirement, no test and no ceremony.
Explore this visaThe pathway
Four steps to the pledge.
Check the requirement
We verify your residence and travel history to the day.
Lodge
Apply with identity, residence and character documents.
Sit the test
Attend the appointment and sit the citizenship test.
The ceremony
If approved, make the pledge at the ceremony and become an Australian citizen.
General information only, not immigration advice. Your circumstances matter. Visa requirements, fees and processing times change regularly. Facts on this page last reviewed 15 July 2026. Check current details with the Department of Home Affairs , or speak with us for advice on your situation. Website terms.
Begin with a conversation.
Speak with a MARA-registered migration agent in Melbourne about your pathway. Book a time that suits you.