​​​​​​​​Learn about the citizenship interview

Applicants who do not need to sit the citizenship test may have an interview with us so we can confirm their identity and ask about their application. If we need to interview you, we will contact you with the details.

Things to know before the interview

If you are 16 or 17 years of age, you may be required to show you understand the nature of your application, have a basic knowledge of the English language, and understand the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship.

If you are aged 60 years or over, or have a hearing, speech or sight impairment you may be required to show you understand the nature of your application. A family member or other person can attend your appointment with you. If you need an interpreter we can arrange this at your appointment.

If you have a permanent or enduring physical or mental incapacity, we may need to verify your claim of incapacity. A family member or other person can attend your appointment with you. If you need an interpreter we can arrange this at your appointment.

What to bring to your interview

Bring a photo identity document (ID) to your appointment. Examples of photo identity documents include:

• an Australian driver licence 
• passport
• an Australian issued proof of age card.

We will not accept certified copies or electronic images of your photo ID. If you do not bring a photo ID, your appointment will be changed to a later date.

At your interview, we will confirm your identity and discuss your citizenship application.

After the interview

Processing of your application will continue. We will notify you in writing when a decision has been made on your application.

We will write to you if we need more information, or when a decision has been made on your application.

If we approve your application and you are required to attend a ceremony, you will be sent an invitation letter, generally about four weeks before the ceremony. If we approve your application and you are not required to attend a ceremony, your citizenship certificate will be sent to you by registered post when we approve your application. See Citizenship ceremony.

Wait times for citizenship ceremonies can vary. See Ceremony wait times.