Circumstances that affect processing times
We assess applications on a case-by-case basis, and actual processing times can vary due to individual circumstances including:
- whether you have lodged a complete application, including all necessary supporting documents
- how promptly you respond to any requests for additional information
- how long it takes to perform required checks on the supporting information provided
- how long it takes to receive additional information from external agencies, particularly in relation to character, and national security requirements
- for citizenship applications, the time taken to attend a Citizenship Ceremony or receive a Citizenship Certificate.
| Australian Citizenship application type | 75% of applications processed in | 90% of applications processed in |
|---|
| Conferral - lodgement to decision* | 14 months | 19 months |
| Conferral - approval to ceremony** | 5 months
| 6 months |
| Conferral - lodgement to ceremony** | 18 months | 23 months |
| Descent (lodgement to decision) | 54 days | 84 days |
| Evidence (lodgement to decision) | 5 days | 10 days |
Last updated: 23 May 2019 (for month ending 30 April 2019)
*'Decision' includes approved, refused and invalidated decision outcomes.
**Most, but not all applicants for Australian citizenship by conferral acquire citizenship at a citizenship ceremony. For Descent and Evidence applications, allow an additional 10 days for printing and postage of your certificate. If you applied from outside Australia, postage will take longer.
