PR Requirements
You must be an Australian PR for at least 4 years before applying for citizenship. During this time: cannot be absent for more than 12 months total, cannot be absent more than 3 months in the final year. These are strict requirements—IRCC checks travel records.
Calculating Your 4 Years
Date you became PR + 4 years = earliest application date. For example: PR approval June 2020, you can apply June 2024. If you leave Australia in Year 3 for 4 months, your clock resets because you broke the 3-month final year rule.
The Application Process
Submit application to Department of Home Affairs. Provide: PR certificate, passport, character assessment, English language evidence, citizenship test results, medical exam (usually required). Processing: 4-6 months standard, up to 12 months if complications.
Citizenship Ceremony
Once approved, you're invited to a citizenship ceremony. You make the pledge: 'I pledge my loyalty to Australia and its people...' Receive citizenship certificate. Officially Australian. Processing ends, new identity begins.