Citizenship By Descent

Overview of citizenship by descent

If you were born overseas and one or both of your parents were Australian citizens when you were born, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship by descent. This process confirms your citizenship status based on your parent’s citizenship and grants you the same rights and responsibilities as other Australian citizens.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for citizenship by descent, you must:

• Have been born outside Australia.
• Have at least one parent who was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth.
• Be of good character if you are 18 years or older when applying.
• Provide sufficient evidence to prove your parentage and your parent’s citizenship status at the time of your birth.

Important notes

• If you are already an Australian citizen and need proof, you can apply for Evidence of Australian citizenship instead.
• Applicants aged 15 years or younger must have their application signed by a parent or legal guardian.
• A bridging visa cannot be granted while your citizenship by descent application is being processed, so you must ensure you have valid visa status if you are in Australia.
• The application fee applies, with reduced fees available for siblings applying together at the same time.

Application process

The application requires submitting a completed form along with supporting documents such as your birth certificate, your parent’s proof of Australian citizenship, and identity documents. The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and may request additional information if needed.

Processing times

Processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your submission. It is recommended to check the Department’s website for current processing times and to apply well in advance if you need citizenship for travel or other purposes.

Rights and responsibilities

Once granted citizenship by descent, you will have the same rights as other Australian citizens, including the right to live, work, and vote in Australia, as well as access to Australian passports and consular assistance overseas.