Australian Citizenship Test Fees 2025: Updated Costs and Information

Are you planning to apply for Australian citizenship? One of the most important aspects to consider is Australian Citizenship Test fees. Understanding the fee structure can help you prepare and avoid any surprises during the application process. As of July 1, 2024, the Australian government has updated the fees to reflect the cost of processing applications. In this article, we’ll break down the fees, concessions, exemptions, and everything you need to know to apply confidently.

Updated Citizenship Test Fees for 2025

The Australian citizenship test fees are determined by the type of application you submit. As of July 1, 2024, the fees have increased based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to better reflect the costs involved in processing these applications.

General Eligibility (Form 1300t)

If you’re applying for Australian citizenship by conferral under general eligibility, here are the fees:

Other Situations (Form 1290)

For those who don’t fall under the general eligibility:

Australian Citizenship by Descent (Form 118)

This applies if at least one of your parents was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth:

Renunciation and Resumption of Citizenship

• Renunciation Fee: $300
• Resumption Fee: $240

Evidence of Citizenship (Form 119)

For individuals needing legal proof of citizenship:

Fee Concessions

If you’re eligible, you can receive a fee concession. This can make the application process more affordable.

Concession eligibility applies to:

• Holders of a Pensioner Concession Card issued by the Australian Government
• Individuals under 18 listed as dependents on a Pensioner Concession Card

To get the concession, you must submit a certified copy of your concession card with your application.

Fee Exemptions

Certain applicants are eligible for a fee exemption:

• British or Maltese former child migrants (arrived in Australia between 1947-1967)
• Applicants who have served 90 days or more in the permanent forces of Australia
• Individuals applying under the Statelessness provision (Section 21(8) of the Australian Citizenship Act 2007)

How to Prove Eligibility

You will need to submit official documents, like a letter from the Child Migrants Trust or discharge papers from the Australian Defence Force to prove your exemption eligibility.

How to Pay Citizenship Test Fees

There are two main ways to pay the fees: online and paper applications.

Online Applications

If you’re applying online via ImmiAccount, you can pay the fee using:

• Credit or debit card (note that surcharges apply)
• PayPal
• UnionPay

When submitting your application online, make sure you attach all required documents. Incomplete applications might result in extra fees or the need to reapply.

Paper Applications

For paper applications, the fee will be applied based on the date the Department of Home Affairs receives your application, not the date it was posted. Be aware of postal delays, and consider using online services for quicker processing.

If your paper application is incomplete or underpaid, you’ll need to make a “top-up” payment using ImmiAccount. If you fail to do so, your application will be returned.

Citizenship Application Deadlines

Applications received after July 1, 2024, will incur the new citizenship test fees. It’s essential to complete your application before this deadline if you want to avoid paying the updated fees. Remember, the fee change is automatic, and there’s no discretion for waiving or altering fees.

Important Considerations for Applicants

• Submit a complete application: An incomplete application can lead to delays and additional costs.
• Plan ahead for fee changes: If you’re applying close to the fee change date, ensure you account for possible system maintenance (ImmiAccount may be down for updates).
• Check your eligibility for concessions or exemptions: Knowing whether you qualify for a discount or exemption can save you money.

Conclusion

Navigating the process of applying for Australian citizenship involves understanding the fees, especially with updates as of July 1, 2024. Whether you’re applying online or via paper, ensure your application is complete, fees are correctly paid, and you meet any concession or exemption criteria. This will help you avoid delays and ensure a smooth application process.

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