Waiting on your citizenship application is frustrating, especially when you can't tell where you're at in the process. Here's what actually happens at each stage and what you can do while you wait.
Heads up: Processing times shift constantly depending on application volumes. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current estimates. The figures below are general guides, not guarantees.
The five stages of the citizenship process
Submitting your application
You apply online through ImmiAccount, pay the application charge, and upload your identity documents and supporting evidence. Get this right the first time, because incomplete applications slow everything down.
Application assessment
A case officer goes through your application. If they need anything extra, they'll contact you. In ImmiAccount your status shows as "received" or "under assessment", but don't read too much into which one you see. This stage is where most of the wait happens.
Citizenship test invitation
Once initial assessment is done, you get an invitation to attend a citizenship appointment. This is when you sit the test and have your identity documents verified in person. The gap between assessment and invitation varies. Some people wait a few months, others longer.
Test and interview
The test is 20 multiple-choice questions on a computer. You need 15 correct (75%) to pass. There's no time limit, so take your time and read each question carefully. If you pass, the interview usually happens in the same appointment.
Citizenship ceremony
After you're approved, you'll receive an invitation to a citizenship ceremony where you make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. Ceremonies are usually run by local councils. Most people wait a few weeks to a few months after approval.
How long does the whole thing take?
Honestly, it varies a lot. The main factors are whether your documents are complete, how many applications are in the system at that time, and whether any additional checks are needed.
A lot of applicants report 12 to 24 months from submission to ceremony, but that is a wide range. Some are processed faster, some wait longer. Check the citizenship processing times section on the Home Affairs website for current figures.
The one thing you can control is being ready for the test the moment your appointment arrives.
What to do while you wait
The gap between submission and your citizenship appointment can stretch for months. Don't leave test preparation to the last minute.
Read Our Common Bond
Download the testable version of Our Common Bond from the Study Guide page. It's not a long document and you can read it in a couple of sittings. Do it early so you have time to revisit weak areas.
Do practice tests regularly
Our free practice tests match the real format exactly: 20 questions, three options, 75% pass mark. Doing a test every week or two keeps the material fresh without it feeling like a chore. Check where you're losing points and focus there.
Use the audio lessons
The audio lessons cover all five topic areas from Our Common Bond. Put them on while you're commuting, cooking, or exercising. It's a low-effort way to keep reinforcing what you've already read.
Aim higher than 75% in practice
The real pass mark is 75%, but practising until you're consistently hitting 80 to 85% means you'll have a genuine buffer on the day. Nerves and slightly different phrasing can knock a few points off, so give yourself room.
On test day
Arrive early and bring all the identity documents listed in your appointment letter. The test is done on a computer at the Home Affairs office and there is no time limit, so read every question properly before you answer. If you don't pass first time, you may be able to sit it again at the same appointment or reschedule.
Start practising now and be ready when your appointment comes
Take a Practice Test →