The Citizenship Ceremony
The citizenship ceremony is the final step in becoming an Australian citizen. After passing the citizenship test and having your application approved, you will be invited to attend a ceremony where you make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. This is a formal but celebratory event — many Chinese Australians describe it as one of the most emotional and meaningful days of their migration journey.
Timeline After Application
| Step | Typical Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application submitted | Day 0 | Online via ImmiAccount |
| Citizenship test invitation | 1-3 months | Booked at a Service Centre near you |
| Test day + identity interview | 2-4 months | 20 questions, 75% pass rate required |
| Application decision | 2-6 months after test | Background checks, character assessment |
| Ceremony invitation | 1-6 months after approval | Local council organises the ceremony |
| Total timeline | 6-18 months from application | Varies significantly by location |
What to Expect on the Day
- Arrive 30 minutes early for registration. Bring your ceremony invitation letter and photo ID.
- You will be seated in a ceremony hall (usually at a local council, library, or community centre).
- The ceremony is opened by the presiding official (often the Mayor or a local dignitary).
- A Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country may be performed by an Aboriginal elder.
- New citizens are called to stand and make the Australian Citizenship Pledge together.
- You receive your Australian Citizenship Certificate — this is your proof of citizenship.
- National anthem is sung. Some ceremonies have live music or cultural performances.
- Morning tea or refreshments are provided. Family photos are encouraged.
What to Bring
- Ceremony invitation letter (printed or on phone)
- Photo ID (passport, drivers licence, or ImmiCard)
- Family members are welcome — bring them to celebrate
- Camera or phone — there will be photo opportunities with the presiding official
- Tissues — many people find the ceremony emotional
The Pledge
From this time forward, under God (or omit "under God"), I pledge my loyalty to Australia and its people, whose democratic beliefs I share, whose rights and liberties I respect, and whose laws I will uphold and obey.
After the Ceremony
- Apply for Australian passport: Visit a post office within days — processing takes 6-10 business days, $398 for adults.
- Enrol to vote: Voting is compulsory in Australia. Enrol within 2 weeks at aec.gov.au.
- Update your records: Notify Centrelink, Medicare, banks, and employer of your new citizen status.
- Chinese citizenship: China does not allow dual citizenship. Becoming Australian means you automatically lose Chinese citizenship. You will need to apply for a Chinese visa to visit China.
Important Note on Chinese Citizenship: Under Chinese law, obtaining foreign citizenship automatically terminates your Chinese citizenship. You cannot hold both. After becoming Australian, you must use your Australian passport to travel and apply for a Chinese visa (Q1 or Q2) to visit family in China. The Q2 tourist visa allows stays up to 120 days. If you have elderly parents in China, consider sponsoring them for an Australian parent visa before renouncing your Chinese citizenship, as the process is simpler while you are still a Chinese citizen.