FAQ

Yes! Starting from July 1, 2023, New Zealand citizens who have lived in Australia for a minimum of four years (and hold a Special Category Visa or SCV) can directly apply for Australian citizenship. They no longer need to go through the process of obtaining a permanent visa first. This change applies to New Zealand citizens who arrived in Australia after February 26, 2001.

You can apply for Australian citizenship yourself by creating an ImmiAccount online and following the step-by-step process. However, it's worth noting that the citizenship application process can be intricate and challenging. At Potts Lawyers, we offer a straightforward and less stressful path to Australian citizenship. Our team of skilled migration lawyers will guide you through each step, ensure you meet all the requirements, and provide the required documentation at the right time. Contact us today to find out how we can assist New Zealand citizens seeking Australian citizenship. Read more about why you should use an immigration lawyer when applying for citizenship.

Yes, both New Zealand and Australia permit dual citizenship. As a result, New Zealanders who become Australian citizens do not forfeit any of their existing rights; instead, they gain additional rights and benefits.

New Zealand citizens can apply for Australian citizenship after living in Australia for 4 years or more, with at least 12 months as a permanent resident. This rule applied from 1 July 2023, and for NZ 189 visa holders, eligibility was backdated to 1 January 2022. Check the eligibility criteria.

Yes, becoming an Australian citizen grants access to a range of benefits, including:

• Centrelink Payment Services.
  
  
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
  
  
• HECS-Help for education.
  
  
• Right to vote.
  
  
• Right to apply for an Australian passport and visit 181 countries visa-free.
  
  
• Right to 24-hour consular assistance when travelling abroad.
  
  
• Children can become Australian citizens through descent.
  
  
• Right to hold Federal government jobs, such as in the Australian Defence, Police, Border Force, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, or as a politician.
  
  
• Right to serve on a jury.
  
  
• Protection from removal from Australia.

No, your children will not automatically acquire Australian citizenship when you do.

However, they have the option to individually apply for Australian citizenship.

If they are under 16 years of age, they can also be included in your own citizenship application.

To apply for Australian citizenship through Potts Lawyers, for those who meet their Standard Introductory Australian Citizenship Package, the fees are as follows:

1. General Applicant: $1100
   • Plus, any additional costs or disbursements, such as the $540 Government application fee.
2. Child under 16 years old: $330
   • Plus, any additional costs or disbursements.

For those applying online directly through the government portal, you can find the list of citizenship fees on their website.

The Government fee for lodging an Australian Citizenship by Conferral application is currently
$540. Please note, there's a credit card surcharge for online payments. Some applicants may
qualify for a Fee concession or exemption

For a standard Australian Citizenship by Conferral application that checks all the boxes of the General Residence Requirements, we are offering a fixed fee of $770 per adult application. Do you want to add a child under 16 to the mix? It's just an extra $330 per child. Read more about our fees.

For one standard adult application with no complications, it will cost the Government
lodgment fee of $540 plus our fixed fee of $1100, which totals $1,640.
Got a unique situation? Give us a call so we can get you a personalised quote.

Absolutely! Children under 16 can hop onto their parent’s application. There's no limit to the number of little ones per adult application.

We pride ourselves on providing you with the ultimate citizenship service! We've got you
covered from drafting documents, obtaining information from you, to hitting submit and even
keeping tabs on its journey with the department.

You'll need your personal IDs, travel documents, police clearance certificates, and proof of your address. Check out the Department of Home Affairs website for the full list.

In most cases, yes. But don't worry; we're here to guide you! Exceptions do exist, for those with impairments or for little ones under 16. There are even practice exams available online for those that want to do a bit of extra study! Read our guide on how to prepare for the Australian Citizenship Test.

Most applicants will need to attend to receive their citizenship certificate and make the
oath/affirmation. Why not make it a family affair? Bring along your loved ones who are
celebrating their citizenship too!

The waiting game! Processing times can vary, but generally 90% of applications are processed
within 9 months. For the latest estimates, check out the Department’s website.

From access to home loan concessions, and student loans, being able to vote in elections, or to hold an Aussie passport, the benefits of becoming an Australian citizen are endless!

Age is no barrier! Applicants aged 60 or older can apply for Australian Citizenship by Conferral,
you might even be able to snag a fee concession.

Double the citizenship, double the fun! When you are granted Australian citizenship, it does
not automatically cancel your New Zealand citizenship, which makes you a dual citizen.

Past mistakes don't define you! You can still apply, but your application might need a little
extra evidence. Let's work together to make it happen.

Honesty is the best policy! Don't forget to declare any driving or traffic records. It will be a
bigger problem if you fail to declare relevant matters.

Although this may have been the case many years ago, marriage won't automatically grant
you citizenship. Let's navigate the process together and make it happen!

Dive into the info on the Department of Home Affairs website!
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/citizenship/become-a-citizen/permanent-resident
Can't find what you need? Reach out to our friendly team via phone or email. We're here to
help you on your citizenship adventure!