What are the new residence requirements for Australian citizenship?
The new residence requirements for Australian citizenship will mean that applicants will need:
four (4) years lawful residence in Australia immediately prior to making an application for Australian citizenship with at least 12 months as a permanent resident, and
absences from Australia of no more than 12 months in total in the four (4) years prior to application, and no more than three (3) months in the 12 month permanent residency period prior to application.
When will the new residence requirements come into effect?
On 1 March 2007, the Australian Citizenship Bill 2006 was passed by the Australian Parliament. The new legislation will commence on 1 July 2007.