Apply for
Citizenship By Birth
Australian citizenship by birth applies to people who are born in Australia and meet specific legal conditions at the time of their birth. In most common situations, a child is automatically an Australian citizen if at least one parent was an Australian citizen or an Australian permanent resident when the child was born. This means the child does not need to apply for citizenship through a separate grant process, as citizenship is acquired automatically at birth.
In cases where neither parent was a citizen or permanent resident at the time of birth, a person may still become an Australian citizen under the 10-year ordinary residence rule. This rule provides that if a child lives in Australia on an ongoing basis for the first 10 years of life, they may be recognised as an Australian citizen regardless of their parents’ status.
Overview for Citizenship By Birth
- Automatic citizenship (most common scenario)
A child born in Australia to an Australian citizen parent is typically automatically an Australian citizen by birth—no “citizenship grant” is required. - Parent was a permanent resident
A child born in Australia to a parent who was a permanent resident at the time of birth is also generally an Australian citizen by birth.
However, many people still need to obtain formal proof (especially if they don’t have an Australian passport). - The 10-year “ordinary residence” rule
Even if neither parent was a citizen or permanent resident when the child was born, a person may still be a citizen if they were ordinarily resident in Australia for the first 10 years of life. - Evidence of Australian citizenship (when you need it)
You may need to apply for Evidence of Australian citizenship to prove your status—commonly for an Australian passport or where supporting documents are incomplete or hard to obtainCost : From AUD 280 for latest cost estimation check here
Eligibility for Citizenship By Birth
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Place of birth | You must have been born in Australia. |
| Parent’s status at time of birth | You are a citizen by birth if a parent was an Australian citizen or permanent resident at the time you were born. |
| 10-year ordinary residence (alternative) | You are a citizen if you were ordinarily resident in Australia for the 10 years starting on your birth date. |
| Proof/evidence (common practical requirement) | If you don’t have an Australian passport or citizenship certificate, you may need to lodge Form 119 to obtain evidence—especially common where a parent was a permanent resident at your birth. |
The Knowbal Citizenship Process
Applying for the Citizenship By Birth can feel complicated, but Knowbal is here to support you at every stage. Here’s how we simplify the application process
Initial Consultation
We start by reviewing your study history, current visa status, and eligibility for the Temporary Graduate Visa. This personalised consultation helps us understand your situation and plan the best application approach for you.
Assigning an Expert Agent
Once we assess your case, you’ll be assigned a dedicated migration expert. This professional will be your main point of contact, guiding you through each step and answering your questions promptly.
Document Preparation
Gathering and organising your documents correctly is critical. Knowbal helps you prepare all necessary paperwork, including your Confirmation of Enrolment, academic transcripts, proof of completion, health insurance, and identity documents to avoid delays or errors.
Submitting the Application
We lodge your visa application on your behalf with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring everything complies with visa requirements and your information is accurately presented.
Ongoing Updates
Throughout the processing period, Knowbal monitors your application and keeps you informed. Should the Department request additional information, we will assist you promptly to ensure a smooth process.
FAQs
Not always. Citizenship by birth depends on whether a parent was an Australian citizen or permanent resident at the time of birth, or whether the person meets the 10-year ordinary residence rule.
Usually, no. The child is generally a citizen by birth. What they may need is evidence of citizenship to prove it for official purposes.
In most cases, yes—citizenship by birth can still apply. The practical step is often obtaining the correct evidence.
It’s official documentation confirming citizenship status. People commonly need it to apply for an Australian passport or when they don’t have acceptable proof already.
It generally means the person lived in Australia on an ongoing basis for the first 10 years of life. Evidence can involve schooling, medical records, visas, and travel history
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