How Long Does It Take to Get Australian Citizenship Through Marriage?

"I thought it would be fast, given that I was married to an Australian citizen." These were the words of Lisa, who had married her partner in Sydney, only to find herself navigating a maze of paperwork and waiting periods. The path to Australian citizenship through marriage is not as straightforward as many think, but with patience and understanding of the process, it can certainly be achieved.

The Journey Begins with a Partner Visa

The first step towards Australian citizenship for those married to an Australian citizen is securing a partner visa. This visa, also known as the Subclass 820/801 for onshore applicants or Subclass 309/100 for offshore applicants, is crucial. It allows you to live in Australia with your partner. But it’s important to note that this visa itself does not automatically lead to citizenship—it’s only the first phase.

Visa TypeApplication FeeProcessing Time
Subclass 820/801 (Onshore)$7,850 AUD20-27 months
Subclass 309/100 (Offshore)$7,850 AUD17-24 months

Temporary to Permanent Visa Transition

Once your temporary partner visa (Subclass 820 or 309) is granted, you enter a two-year waiting period before being eligible for a permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100). During this time, the Department of Home Affairs assesses the genuineness of your relationship, ensuring that it’s not just for visa purposes. You’ll be asked to submit evidence, such as joint bank accounts, photos, and statements from family and friends.

This stage can be emotionally draining for many couples. The scrutiny feels intense, and delays are not uncommon due to backlog or incomplete documentation.

The Path to Citizenship

So, how long does it take to finally hold that prized Australian citizenship certificate? Let’s break down the timeline:

  1. Partner Visa: As mentioned, it takes 17 to 27 months to transition from a temporary to a permanent visa.
  2. Permanent Residency: After you have your permanent visa (Subclass 801 or 100), you must hold it for at least 12 months before being eligible for citizenship.
  3. Citizenship Application: Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for citizenship. The application process, including a citizenship test and interview, takes around 12-18 months.

Citizenship by Conferral

Marriage alone is not a direct pathway to citizenship; it falls under the category of Citizenship by Conferral. To be eligible for this, you must:

  • Have lived in Australia for four years as a lawful resident.
  • Have held your permanent visa for at least 12 months.
  • Pass the Australian citizenship test.
  • Prove good character.

Given these conditions, most applicants spend 5-6 years in total from the time they are granted a temporary partner visa to the moment they become citizens.

Exceptions and Fast-Track Options

Some people may qualify for shorter residency requirements if they:

  • Are spouses of Australian citizens working for the government abroad.
  • Have significant contributions to the country in sectors like sports or research.

However, these exceptions are rare and come with stringent conditions.

Lisa's Story: The Waiting Game

Lisa and her husband David applied for her partner visa shortly after their wedding. "We were optimistic at first," she says. They had all their documents ready, and their relationship was genuine. But as the months dragged on, the stress mounted. "The uncertainty was the hardest part—especially when we saw others waiting longer than expected."

The temporary visa took 24 months to be granted, and another 24 months before she received her permanent residency. "I had to constantly remind myself that citizenship was the end goal. Once I became a permanent resident, it was only a matter of holding out for that final year."

Key Takeaways for Applicants

  • Be Prepared for the Long Haul: From the initial partner visa application to citizenship, expect the process to take around 5-6 years.
  • Evidence is Key: Keep meticulous records of your relationship, as it will be scrutinized at every stage.
  • Patience is a Virtue: Delays are common. Ensure that your paperwork is in order to avoid further holdups.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I work in Australia while waiting for my citizenship? Yes, once your temporary partner visa is granted, you can work and study in Australia.

  • Does having children with an Australian citizen speed up the process? No, having children does not fast-track your citizenship application. However, your children will automatically be Australian citizens if they are born in Australia.

  • What happens if my relationship breaks down before I receive citizenship? If your relationship ends before you obtain permanent residency, your visa may be canceled. However, there are exceptions, such as in cases of domestic violence.

Conclusion

Achieving Australian citizenship through marriage is not a quick process. It requires patience, commitment, and a thorough understanding of the visa and citizenship requirements. While the journey can take up to 6 years, for many, the wait is worth it, leading to a lifetime of opportunities in a country renowned for its quality of life.

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