Can You Become an Australian Citizen by Marriage?
Marriage to an Australian citizen does not automatically grant you citizenship in Australia. However, it can be a pathway towards obtaining Australian citizenship. In this blog post, we will explore the process of becoming an Australian citizen by marriage, detailing the requirements and steps involved.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship through marriage, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be married to an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- You must hold a valid partner visa.
- You must have lived in a genuine and ongoing marital relationship with your Australian spouse for at least three years prior to applying for citizenship.
- You must meet the residence requirement, which states that you must have been living in Australia on a valid visa for at least four years, including the last year as a permanent resident.
- You must meet the character requirement, which involves passing a character test to ensure you are of good character.
The Application Process
Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you can begin the application process for Australian citizenship. The process can be summarized in the following steps:
- Complete the necessary forms - You will need to complete the Form 1300t, also known as the Application for Australian Citizenship by Descent/Conferral, and gather all the required supporting documents.
- Submit the application - Send the completed forms and supporting documents to the Department of Home Affairs. Make sure to pay the required application fee.
- Wait for processing - The processing time for citizenship applications varies, but it can take several months. You may be required to attend an interview or provide additional documents if requested by the authorities.
- Receive a decision - Once your application is processed, you will receive a decision regarding your citizenship. If approved, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony where you will take the Australian citizenship pledge.
- Obtain your Australian citizenship certificate - After the citizenship ceremony, you will be given an Australian citizenship certificate, which serves as proof of your Australian citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I become an Australian citizen immediately after getting married to an Australian citizen?
A: No, you cannot become an Australian citizen immediately after getting married. You must meet the eligibility criteria and go through the application process before being granted Australian citizenship.