An important step in your immigration journey, Australian citizenship is the pledging an ongoing commitment to the shared values of our nation. Australian citizenship commences formal membership of a unique national community and is a privilege offering enormous rewards.

Australia maintains a stable system of government and citizens respect the authority and laws of the government. The nation’s stability, culture and laws have been shaped by a history enriched through migration. By joining the Australian community, you will also be enriching Australia’s ongoing story.

Being a democratic nation, Australian citizenship provides an opportunity to participate fully in building the democratic nation. Making the citizenship pledge means a readiness to fulfil the responsibilities as a formal member of the Australian community.

Australians share a belief in values such as the dignity and freedom of individuals, equal opportunity for all and the rule of law. Australian citizenship means living out these shared values in everyday life. Australian citizens pledge loyalty to Australia and are reciprocally entitled to its protection and to exercise rights and responsibilities as citizens.

There are a number of different ways to obtain Australian citizenship with each pathway having distinct eligibility criteria. Citizenship by conferral and descent are the most common means of applying.