Australian citizenship by birth

Australian citizenship by birth refers to acquiring Australian citizenship automatically by being born in Australia or to at least one Australian citizen parent.

The ways of getting citizenship by birth in Australia

Australian citizenship by birth refers to acquiring Australian citizenship automatically by being born in Australia or to at least one Australian citizen parent. Here are some key points about Australian citizenship by birth:

1. Birth in Australia. If you were born in Australia before August 20, 1986, you are automatically an Australian citizen by birth. This applies regardless of the nationality or immigration status of your parents.
2. Birth in Australia on or after August 20, 1986. If you were born in Australia on or after August 20, 1986, you are generally an Australian citizen by birth if at least one of your parents was an Australian citizen or permanent resident at the time of your birth. This covers instances in which one parent is an Australian citizen and the other is a permanent resident or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
3. Children born to Australian citizen parents overseas. If you were born overseas to at least one parent who was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth, you may be eligible for Australian citizenship by descent. This is not considered Australian citizenship by birth, but it allows you to acquire Australian citizenship automatically.

Documentation and Application

For Australian citizenship by birth, you do not need to go through a formal application process. The acquisition of citizenship occurs automatically based on your birth in Australia or to an Australian citizen parent. However, it is still important to have appropriate documentation to prove your Australian citizenship status. Here are some details regarding documentation for Australian citizenship by birth:

1. Australian birth certificate. If you were born in Australia, you should obtain a birth certificate from the state or territory where you were born. This document serves as official proof of your Australian citizenship by birth.
2. Passport. Once you have your birth certificate, you can apply for an Australian passport. A passport is a widely recognized and accepted document that verifies your Australian citizenship. It is required for international travel and can also be used as proof of citizenship within Australia.
3. Citizenship certificate (if applicable). If you were born overseas to at least one Australian citizen parent, you may be eligible for Australian citizenship by descent. In this case, you need to apply for a citizenship certificate through Form 119 “Application for evidence of Australian citizenship.” The certificate serves as official proof of your Australian citizenship.
4. Other supporting documents. Depending on your specific situation, you may need additional supporting documents to establish your citizenship status. For example, if you were adopted in Australia, you may need adoption papers or relevant legal documents.

Dual Nationality

Australia generally permits dual citizenship, which means that if you acquire Australian citizenship by birth, you can hold citizenship of another country simultaneously.