Child adopted overseas by an Australian citizen

How a child adopted overseas by an Australian citizen acquires their Australian citizenship, depends on how the adoption was finalised.

In Australia

If the adoption process is completed in Australia through an Australian state or territory government process and the child is a permanent resident, the child will automatically acquire citizenship. No application for citizenship is required.

Overseas under the Hague Convention

If the adoption process is completed overseas under the 'full and permanent' Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption, the child is eligible to apply for citizenship using Form 1272 Application for Australian citizenship for children adopted under the “full and permanent” Hague Convention arrangements.

Find out how to apply for Australian citizenship by adoption.
You apply on a paper application form

Overseas under other arrangements

If the child is adopted overseas under other arrangements, the child may be eligible for Australian citizenship by conferral if they hold an adoption visa or any other visa providing permanent residence.

There are two categories of eligibility:

• Form 1300t Australian citizenship - General eligibility for applicants aged 18 years and over and under 60 years of age.
• Form 1290 Australian citizenship – Other situations for applicants aged under18 years applying in their own right.

Find out how to apply for Australian citizenship and apply online.
You can also apply on a paper application form.