Application process to resume Australian citizenship

There are four steps in the application process for resuming Australian citizenship. Click on each step below for more information.

Step 1. Determine that you are eligible

Former citizens can apply to resume Australian citizenship if they ceased being Australian citizens:

• by acquiring the citizenship of another country before 4 April 2002; or
• by renouncing their Australian citizenship to retain or acquire another citizenship or to avoid significant hardship; or
• as children when their responsible parent ceased to be an Australian citizen.

All applicants must be of good character.

Children

Applications for children under 16 years of age must be made by a parent or legal guardian.

Step 2. Gather your original documents

Use this checklist as a guide to the original documents usually required.

Step 3. Copy and certify your documents

Have your documents copied and certified and your proof of identity declaration and photograph signed.

You must copy your original documents and have them certified by an Australian citizen from the designated list of occupations.

Applicants outside Australia

If you are overseas when applying, you can have your original documents certified by a citizen of your country of residence who is employed in one of the designated list of occupations.

Step 4. Complete and lodge your application

Complete and lodge your application together with your certified documents, photograph and fee.

Once you have had your documents copied and certified you will need to complete all parts of the application form.

More information on how to complete and lodge your application form is available.

The time it takes to apply for and be approved for Australian citizenship varies. For many applicants it takes between three to six months. Citizenship commences on the date the application is approved. You do not need to attend a citizenship ceremony.