Citizenship and 155 Visas

Your Path to Australian Citizenship and Resident Return Visas

At TranQuill Legal, we specialise in guiding individuals through the Australian citizenship application process. We provide expert advice and support for those looking to establish their permanent home in Australia, ensuring you understand all eligibility requirements and the application process. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you navigate any challenges that may arise along the way.

Australian Citizenship

Applying for Australian citizenship is an important step for many who want to make Australia their permanent home.

Citizenship Eligibility Criteria

To become an Australian citizen, which can take 1-2 years (longer if you have a criminal record), applicants must meet specific requirements: 

  • 1. Eligibility Requirements:


    Permanent Residency: Applicants must be permanent residents of Australia or eligible New Zealand citizens. Sc444 visa holders are treated as permanent residents, and there are some quite complex rules around this, most of which benefit Kiwis.

    Residency Requirements: You must have lived in Australia for at least four years before applying, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident. During this time, you must not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months, including no more than 90 days in the 12 months before applying.

    Good Character: You must be of good character, meaning you comply with Australian laws and do not have a substantial criminal record. The requirements around character (ie that you are a fit and proper person) are stricter than the requirements for PR so its best to check with us to see if your criminal record will affect you. Perpetrators of family violence who have a history of family violence orders can also be excluded from eligibility. 

  • 2. Citizenship Test:

    Most applicants aged between 18 and 59 must pass a citizenship test that assesses some knowledge of Australian values, history, culture, and the responsibilities of citizenship. There is a very good booklet you can read which gives you all the answers. 

  • 3. Intent to Reside:

    You must intend to live in Australia or maintain a close and continuing association with the country if granted citizenship. If you are planning to be outside Australia after lodging you may wish to reconsider as Home Affairs expects you to be back in Australia to stay. 

  • 4 Other Considerations:

    Specific exceptions and exemptions may apply to applicants based on age, disability, or other circumstances, such as children or spouses of Australian citizens.

For more detailed information, including documents required and application procedures, book a consultation with us and we will go through it all in gory detail.

A man is holding a little girl in his arms on the beach.

The Citizenship Application Process

  1. Gather Documentation: You must provide personal details, proof of residency, and character references.
  2. Complete the Application: Applications can be submitted online or via a paper form through the Department of Home Affairs website.
  3. Pay the Fee: There is a fee for the application, which can vary depending on your age and circumstances.
  4. Attend an Interview: If required, you may need to attend an interview or take the citizenship test.
  5. Receive a Decision: After processing, you'll receive a notification about your application status.

If your application is successful, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony, where you will make the pledge of commitment to Australia. This is an important step in officially becoming an Australian citizen.

Important Considerations

  • Dual Citizenship: Australia allows dual citizenship, but you should check your home country's policies, as some countries do not allow it.
  • Waiting Period: The processing time can vary, so it's essential to apply well in advance if you have any specific timelines in mind.

Resident Return Visa (subclass 155)

The Resident Return Visa (RRV) subclass 155 visa allows Australian permanent residents, former permanent residents, and former citizens to re-enter Australia. Here are the key requirements:

1. Lived in Australia for 2 out of the last 5 years (5-year RRV):

  • If you have lived in Australia as a permanent resident for two out of the last five years, you will be granted a 5 year RRV.


2. Substantial Ties to Australia (for 1-year RRV):

  • If you do not meet the 2-year residence requirement, you may still be eligible for a  3 month (sc157) or 1-year RRV (sc155) if you can demonstrate substantial ties that benefit Australia, such as Australian citizen spouse/children, substantial assets, or ongoing employment.


3. Validity of Previous Travel Facility:

  • You should apply for an RRV before your current travel facility on your permanent visa expires to ensure you can re-enter Australia without issues.


4. Character Requirements:

  • All applicants must meet the Australian character requirements, including no significant criminal record or history of non-compliance with immigration laws.


5. Evidence of Residence or Ties:

  • You may be required to provide documents proving your residence, ties to Australia, or the reason for your absence from the country, especially if applying for a shorter-duration RRV.
  • We have assisted clients who have been outside of Australia for decades. Whether you will be granted a visa very much depends on why you were out of the country and for how long and when (Its complicated!)


For detailed information on eligibility, documentation, and the application process, book a consultation with us so we can tell you all of the things you need to know.


Take the next step towards citizenship; call us at 02 6140 5311.

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