How to Become an Australian Citizen – Step-by-Step Guide

A clear, general overview of Australia’s citizenship pathways, plus what to expect in the citizenship test and interview. We link you directly to the official application steps and the Our Common Bond booklet PDF.

Official “How to apply” Download “Our Common Bond” PDF
Pathways to citizenship Application steps Test & interview FAQs
20

Questions in the test

Aim for 75% overall and a perfect score on the values questions.

5/5

Values questions

All five Australian values questions must be correct to pass.

5+

Pathways

Common routes include conferral, descent, adoption, resumption and others.

Pathways to citizenship (at a glance)

  • By conferral: For eligible applicants who meet residence, identity and character requirements.
  • By descent: For people born overseas to an Australian citizen parent.
  • By adoption: For certain intercountry adoptions recognised under Australian law.
  • Resuming citizenship: For former Australian citizens who meet the criteria to resume.
  • Other specific categories: Certain special circumstances may apply (e.g., some New Zealand citizens and others under specific provisions).

Use the official “How to apply” page to choose your pathway and confirm eligibility.

Official How-to-apply (opens new tab)

How to apply — step by step

1
Choose your pathway & check eligibility.
Confirm you meet the requirements for your route (e.g., conferral, descent, adoption, resumption).
2
Prepare your documents.
Identity, evidence of residence or parentage/adoption, name changes, and any pathway-specific documents.
3
Apply online and pay the fee.
Submit via the official portal; keep your details up to date.
4
Attend your appointment.
This may include an interview and, for many conferral applicants, a computer-based test.
5
Decision & ceremony.
If approved, you’ll be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony.

Citizenship test & interview — what to expect

  • Who takes the test? Many applicants by conferral (generally adults within specified age ranges) sit the test; other pathways may involve an interview only.
  • Format & pass mark: 20 multiple-choice questions; aim for at least 75% overall and 5/5 Australian values correct.
  • Preparation: Study the official booklet Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond and then practise with Citizenship Mate’s revision tools.
  • On the day: Bring requested ID; results are often shown immediately; if approved, you’ll later receive a ceremony invitation.

Practise here: Games Hub · Full Mock Test
Official booklet (PDF): Our Common Bond

Frequently asked questions

Which pathway should I choose?
It depends on your situation. Common options include conferral, descent, adoption and resumption. Use the official How-to-apply guide to select the correct route.
What score do I need to pass the citizenship test?
Aim for 75% overall (15/20 correct) with all five Australian values questions correct.
Do all applicants need to sit the test?
No. Many conferral applicants do; other pathways may require only an interview. Your invitation will state what applies to you.
How should I prepare?
Read the official Our Common Bond booklet (PDF) and practise with Citizenship Mate’s Games Hub and Mock Test.

Official resources: How to apply · Our Common Bond — Testable PDF