Citizenship Ceremonies
We take great pride in helping you take the final step to become an Australian citizen.
We are currently holding face-to-face ceremonies. Candidates will be notified if changes are made in line with current Public Health Orders.
How often are Citizenship Ceremonies held?
Four to six times per year.
What is involved?
- Check-in with staff on arrival and present identification
- Citizenship Preamble
- Pledge/Oath of Commitment to the Commonwealth of Australia
Citizenship Certificates
To apply for Australian Citizenship or check the status of your application phone the Citizenship Information Line on 131 880 or visit the Department of Home Affairs’ (DOHA) website. Applications are processed by the DOHA and, if successful, they will notify you.
I have received my letter of approval from the Department of Home Affairs, when can I attend a Citizenship Ceremony?
The application process is lengthy and there is usually a waiting time of three to six months between approval and your ceremony. We will email or post you an invitation advising the details of your ceremony. We are not able to advise if you are eligible for a ceremony, contact the Department of Home Affairs to determine this.
Where are ceremonies held?
Ceremonies are usually held in the Bicentennial Hall, 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan. Confirmation of the venue will be provided in your invitation from us to attend a ceremony.
How long does a ceremony take?
Ceremonies take between 30-40 minutes, followed by light refreshments for conferees and their guests.
Do I need to attend a ceremony to receive my Citizenship Certificate?
Yes. Candidates need to make their Pledge to validate their citizenship and receive their Citizenship Certificate.
What if I cannot attend the ceremony?
Contact the Ceremonies Coordinator on the phone number listed on your invitation. We will notify the Department of Home Affairs and they will arrange for you to attend a future ceremony.
What do I need to bring to the ceremony?
Please bring photo identification (such as a Driver License or Passport). If you do not have photo identification, please bring at least three documents with your name, address and signature (for example, bank statements, credit cards or bills).
These documents are also required as proof of identification by the Australian Electoral Commission to allow you to vote in Australian elections.
Can I bring guests to the ceremony?
Yes. For seating and catering purposes, please advise the Ceremonies Coordinator how many guests will be accompanying you.
Will there be a photographer at the ceremony?
No, conferees are to make their own arrangements for photos taken at ceremonies. On request, we are happy to take photos using your own camera or phone.
Do children receiving citizenship need to attend the ceremony?
Children 16 years and under are not legally required to attend the ceremony, though they are welcome to participate where possible. If they do not attend, the parent whom the child is registered under can collect the Certificate on their behalf at the ceremony.
When can I apply for a passport?
Please allow a minimum of 10 days before applying for your Australian Passport. This allows us time to notify the Department of Home Affairs who attended the ceremony. Your original Citizenship Certificate will be needed when applying for an Australian passport. For more information please visit the Australian Passport Office or phone them on 131 232.
What should I wear?
Smart/casual dress attire is worn at citizenship ceremonies. Attendees are also welcome to wear their own national/traditional/cultural dress. No singlet tops or thongs are permitted.
What if I have extenuating circumstances and require an urgent Citizenship Ceremony?
A request for an urgent Citizenship Ceremony must be in writing and directed to the Ceremonies Coordinator. Approval is required from both the Presiding Officer and the Department of Home Affairs. Reasons for approval might include a death in the family overseas and an urgent need to obtain a new Australian Passport to travel. Note: Planned holidays are NOT an extenuating circumstance.
Who can I contact for further enquiries?
For ceremony enquiries, please contact Council’s Ceremonies Coordinator on 02 6285 6338.
For information on eligibility and how to apply to become an Australian citizen, please contact the Department of Home Affairs’ Citizenship Information Line on 131 880 or visit their website.