Citizenship by Descent

Applying for Australian citizenship by descent is primarily an online process. You do not become a citizen automatically by birth; you must apply and be approved to receive your citizenship certificate.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Before starting your application, gather high-quality color scans of your supporting documents. If any document is not in English, you must provide an accredited translation (a translation performed by a certified professional). You will need:

• Your Full Birth Certificate showing both parents' names.
• Three identity documents (such as a Passport, National ID card, or Driver’s License) that collectively show your photo, signature, and current address.
• Form 1195 (Identity Declaration): This must be completed and signed by an authorized person (like a doctor or teacher) who has known you for at least one year.
• Proof of your parent’s Australian citizenship at the time of your birth (e.g., their Australian Birth Certificate or Citizenship Certificate).
• If your parent also acquired citizenship by descent, you must provide evidence they lived in Australia for at least 2 years before you applied (e.g., school or work records).

Step 2: Check Character Requirements

If you are 18 years or older, you must meet the "good character" requirement. You will need to provide Overseas Penal Clearance Certificates from any country where you have spent a total of 12 months or more (and at least 90 days) in the last 10 years.

Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount

Most applications are submitted through the ImmiAccount portal. Create an account or log in to an existing one to start your digital application.

Step 4: Complete Form 118

Within ImmiAccount, select "New Application" and choose Citizenship > Application for Australian citizenship by descent (Form 118). Fill out the details carefully. If you are applying for multiple siblings at the same time, process them together in the same session to qualify for the discounted fee.

Step 5: Pay and Submit

Pay the application fee using a credit card or PayPal through the portal. Your application is not considered "lodged" until the payment is successful.

Step 6: Follow-up and Decision

The Department of Home Affairs will review your file. In rare cases, they may contact you to request a DNA test if the biological relationship isn't clear from your documents. Once a decision is made, you will be notified in writing. If approved, your citizenship begins on the date of approval, and your certificate will be sent to you via registered post.

Fees are updated annually and the following rates are effective as of July 1, 2025.

Item	Cost
Standard Application (First Person)	AUD 370
Sibling Discount (Applying at the same time)	AUD 150 per sibling

Total Estimate: Approximately AUD 370 for a single applicant. Does not include: Costs for document translations, overseas police clearances, postage, or DNA testing if requested.

The Department of Home Affairs updates processing times monthly. You should expect the following windows:

• Standard Processing: Most applications take between 4 to 7 months.
• Complex Cases: Delays may occur if your parent’s residency history is difficult to verify or if overseas documents require extensive verification.
• Certificate Delivery: After approval, allow an additional 1 to 2 weeks for your citizenship certificate to arrive by registered mail.

Document Validity: Ensure your identity documents and penal clearances are current at the time of lodgment. If you are applying from within Australia, remember that this application does not provide a bridging visa; you must ensure your current visa remains valid until the citizenship is granted.