What is an Australian Citizenship Certificate?
An Australian Citizenship Certificate is an identification document that proves you are an Australian citizen.
If you were not born in Australia but became a citizen through other means, such as through descent or through immigration, then you will need a Citizenship Certificate to prove your Australian citizenship and obtain such documents as an Australian passport.
If you were born in Australia, then your birth certificate suffices as proof of citizenship.
If you became a citizen through immigration, then you will be awarded a Certificate of Citizenship at your Citizenship Ceremony.
If you lost a previously issued Certificate of Citizenship or were granted Australian Citizenship through descent, birth, or adoption, then you may apply for a Certificate of Citizenship using Form 119.
Who should file Form 119, Application for Evidence of Australian Citizenship?
You can apply for proof or evidence of citizenship if:
- You were born in Australia and acquired citizenship by birth; OR
- You were previously issued a Citizenship Certificate and you need to replace it; OR
- You were born in the former Australian Territory of Papua before 16 September 1975 and acquired Australian citizenship and did not subsequently lose Australian citizenship on Independence day; OR
- You were born in Australia on or after 20 August 1986 and acquired Australian citizenship on your 10th birthday; OR
- You were born outside Australia after 26 January 1949 and acquired Australian citizenship by descent; OR
- You were born outside Australia before 26 January 1949 and acquired Australian citizenship.
How long does it take to get an Australian Citizenship Certificate?
After filing your Australian Citizenship Certificate application, the DHA will aim to process it within 1 week, but note that there might be additional post mail delays.
How much does applying for an Australian Citizenship Certificate cost?
In most cases, the government filing fee for this application is $240. The cost may vary if the certificate was lost, damaged or destroyed due to an natural disaster (severe flood, thunderstorm, etc) that is listed in the DHA list and the new application is made within 18 months of the date the natural disaster occurred.