Citizenship by descent
On this page
Who qualifies?
You must have been born outside Australia on or after 26 January 1949 and be able to show that the person you claim descent from was your parent when you were born and an Australian citizen at that time. If your parent became a citizen by descent, or by adoption outside Australia under the Hague Convention or a bilateral arrangement, they must have spent at least 2 years lawfully in Australia before you apply. If you are 18 or over you must be of good character. Children born through an international surrogacy arrangement have their own rules.
Evidence
You give three identity documents showing your birth name, date of birth and sex, your photograph, your signature and current address, with a full birth certificate where possible. For a child 15 or younger, a parent must sign the application. If you are already a citizen and only need proof, apply for evidence of citizenship instead.
Cost and timing
A$380 for the first applicant and A$160 for each subsequent sibling applying at the same time. For citizenship by descent, 50% of applications are decided within 37 days and 90% within 4 months. A bridging visa cannot be granted for this application.
FAQ
Do I attend a ceremony?
See the ceremony page.
What about lost evidence?
See lost certificate.