Change To Citizenship “Special Residence” Rules: Academics and Senior Ministers Now Included
On 21 March 2026, the Australian Citizenship (special residence requirement) Amendment (Measures No. 1) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/024) amends the Principal Instrument LIN 21/069. The change expands the types of work that may count toward meeting that special residence requirement for citizenship applications lodged on or after 21 March 2026.
What are the Changes?
The changes to the Australian Citizenship special residence requirement now expand the existing R&D category, so academic work is eligible. It also includes a new eligible category covering ministers of religion who hold senior leadership positions in religious organisations.
Related: What are the Australian Citizenship Exemptions and Special Considerations?
Who is affected by this Change?
Applicants for Australian citizenship relying on the special residence requirement in s.22B(1)(a) whose applications are lodged on or after 21 March 2026.
Academic staff engaged in research and development-type roles may now have that employment recognised for the special residence test.
Ministers of religion in senior leadership roles may similarly have their ministerial duties recognised.
What Evidence Should I Prepare if I’m Eligible for the Special Residence Rule for Australian Citizenship?
If your citizenship eligibility depends on this change, gather relevant documents as supporting evidence, for example:
Employment contracts or appointment letters stating role, duties and dates;
Detailed role descriptions or position statements showing research/academic duties or senior religious leadership responsibilities;
Employer or organisational references confirming duties and seniority;
Pay records, project descriptions, publications for academics or evidence of leadership responsibilities and community role for ministers.
Seek professional advice from an immigration lawyer if you are unsure whether your work qualifies or how to request a special residence for a citizenship application.
Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling.
Related:
Charged, Not Convicted: Does it Affect My Visa or Citizenship Application
I Was Born in Australia and Have Lived Here My Whole Life. Am I Eligible for Australian Citizenship?
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
As more applicants may be able to satisfy the special residence requirement due to the legislative amendments, for any questions regarding your visa pathway, reach out to speak with one of our immigration lawyers for tailored professional advice and guidance. At Agape Henry Crux, our team of immigration lawyers work together with our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law, who specialise in handling highly complex matters. You can book a consultation with one of our lawyers to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English and Mandarin. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
Our founder and principal lawyer, Jason Ling, has been recognised in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™. Agape Henry Crux is named as Best Immigration Law Firm 2025 - Sydney by APAC Insider Awards.
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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