Changes to test exemptions

Most citizenship applicants are required to pass a test to demonstrate that they have an understanding of the nature of the application, a basic knowledge of the English language and an adequate knowledge of Australia and of the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship.

The following people are not required to sit a citizenship test:

• people aged under 18
• people aged 60 or over 
• people born to a former Australian citizen who lost Australian citizenship on acquisition of another citizenship
• people who are stateless and were born in Australia
• people born in Papua before 16 September 1975 to an Australian citizen born in Australia as currently defined
• people who have a permanent physical or mental incapacity which means they are not capable of understanding the nature of their application.

From 9 November 2009 these exemptions were extended. Now if you provide evidence from a medical specialist that you have a permanent or enduring physical or mental incapacity which means at the time you make your application you are not capable of:

• understanding the nature of your application; or
• demonstrating a basic knowledge of the English language; or
• demonstrating an adequate knowledge of Australia and of the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship

then you are not required to sit a citizenship test.

The eligibility requirements for Australian citizenship remain unchanged. Criteria include being a permanent resident, meeting the residence requirement and being of good character.
See: Do I need to sit the citizenship test?