Citizenship by Descent: A Pathway to Australian Citizenship
If you were born outside of Australia and have a parent who was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship by descent pathway.
What is Citizenship by Descent?
The pathway for citizenship by descent applies specifically to individuals born outside of Australia on or after 26 January 1949.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for Citizenship by Descent?
To qualify for Australian citizenship by descent, you will have to meet the following criteria:
One (or both) of your parents must have been an Australian at the time of your birth.
You must be born outside of Australia on or after 26 January 1949.
If your parent(s) became an Australian citizen by descent or through adoption outside Australia under the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption, they must spend at least 2 years residing in Australia before your citizenship application.
If you are 18 years old or older at the time of your application, you must demonstrate “good character” to meet the character requirement.
If you are born through an international surrogacy arrangement, additional documentation and conditions may be required. We highly suggest that you speak with an Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law for professional advice and guidance.
Related:
What are the Australian Citizenship Exemptions and Special Considerations?
International Surrogacy and Australian Citizenship by Descent
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You?
If you think you meet the abovementioned criteria and have some concerns or doubts, feel free to reach out to one of our immigration lawyers for professional advice. Our team of immigration lawyers and registered migration agents (RMA) at Agape Henry Crux works with our Accredited Specialist(s) in Immigration Law to handle highly complex matters. You can book a Migration Planning Session with our team by calling 02-8310-5230 or emailing us to book a time at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin and Cantonese. If these aren’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.
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