Tips on Applying for Citizenship

How to apply for a New Zealand criminal record check for immigration purposes

It’s recommended to apply online as this is a much quicker process and p0lice checks are usually provided within 1-3 business days. Alternatively, you can download, complete and email or post the appropriate form with all your details.

• Be sure to include all possible names including shortened names, nicknames, aliases and previous names known by.
• You will need a New Zealand passport or witness declaration.
• Make sure you tick the box requesting a full criminal record check at Step 3.

How to apply for an Australian Federal Police National Police Certificate

You can apply online for a certificate online.

• Be sure to include all possible names including shortened names, nicknames, aliases and previous names known by.
• You will need 100 points of ID.
• You need to choose Commonwealth Employment/Purpose and Purpose of Check -33 – Immigration & Citizenship – Supply to the Department of Home Affairs

How to apply for your travel records that are less than 30 years old

We recommend applying online as it is a faster and smoother process. Alternatively, you can download, complete and email the Form 1359 to the Department of Home Affairs.

• You will need your passport and ID documents for any name changes.
• Cost: Free
• Processing time: Up to 30 days

How to apply for your travel records that are older than 30 years old

Apply online to the Australian National Archives.

• You will need as much information and clues as possible regarding your past travel. You do not need to provide any documents.

How to check your visa details and conditions

Apply for a Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) check online or download myVEVO for free from your App store.

• You will need your passport details.

How to study for the Australian Citizenship Test

All citizenship test resources and information are available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

• Resources include the Our Common Bold Booklet and Youtube Videos
• The most important section to learn is ‘Australian Values’
• There will be 20 multichoice questions in total
• 5 of the questions will be about Australian Values
• All 5 Australian Values questions must be answered correctly
• A pass mark of 75% or higher is required to pass the test (15/20 questions answered correctly).
• If you do not pass the test you will be able to sit the test up to two more times on the same day.
• If you fail the test you will have an opportunity to attend another appointment to resit the test again
• If you fail a second time, you may be refused citizenship and have to start all over again

How to obtain your Notice of Assessments from the ATO

Notice of Assessments can be obtained by accessing your MyGov account or by contacting your tax consultant or accountant and asking them to email you copies.

• You will need to have the ATO linked to your MyGov account.
• Go to MyGov > Tax > Lodgements > Income Tax > History > Notice of Assessment

How to apply for a New Zealand Birth Certificate or Marriage Certificate

Applications can be made online, over the phone or in person.

• You will need your passport details.

How to notify the Department of Home Affairs of changes to your circumstances

Any changes to passports or address details should be reported to the Department as soon as possible.

• Download the  Form 929  and email the completed form to 929@homeaffairs.gov.au
• If you need to notify the Department of any other changes in your circumstances not mentioned above, please complete and return a Form 1022