Document checklist for Australian citizenship by descent

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The following document checklists are for applications for Australian citizenship by descent.

This checklist lists documents commonly required.

There is general information about documents that may assist you.

If you have difficulty finding suitable documents please call the Citizenship Information Line on 131 880 in Australia between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm Monday to Friday.

If you are outside Australia and need assistance please contact your nearest Australian mission.

Proof of identity

Document Checked

Birth certificate, or equivalent, that shows:

  • birth name
  • birth date
  • place of birth
  • names of parents.
  
Evidence of any change of name and linkages between names used, if applicable  
Passport, if any  
Evidence of current residential address  

Identity declaration completed.

The declaration in the application form must be accompanied by an endorsed photograph. 		 

Good character

Document Checked

You will need to provide penal clearance certificates from overseas countries if, in the last 10 years:

  • you lived or travelled overseas since the age of 18 years or over
  • the total time spent overseas added up to 12 months or more
  • the time spent in any one country was more than 90 days
  • you are requested to do so by the department.
If you are applying outside Australia, then Australia should be considered an overseas country. 		 

Supporting documents

Document Checked

Documents that show one responsible parent was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth, such as:

  • a full Australian birth certificate
  • an Australian citizenship certificate or naturalisation certificate
  • an Australian passport
  

Evidence of other citizenships held by your Australian citizen parent such as a letter or certificate showing a date of acquisition of other citizenship, if applicable.

  

If your Australian citizen parent was a citizen by descent, evidence that your parent was resident in Australia for two years, such as:

  • school records
  • employment records
  • any documents issued by an Australian government agency
  

Identity documents for the responsible parent who is applying on behalf of a child under 16 years of age.

Documents must collectively show a signature, photograph and current address, such as a passport, drivers licence, credit card or utilities bill.
Any orders relating to the custody, guardianship or parental responsibility for this child, if this applies.  

You may be required to provide additional documents to those listed above.

If you are overseas when you are applying, you should contact the nearest Australian overseas post or see their website for more information before lodging your application.
See: Immigration Offices Outside Australia