old.sparkles

No I wouldn't think so either - shame you didn't start organising things before.

E3only

Yeah, I never really thought it would be a deal breaker.

I mean, I knew I had to apply for citizenship that he was eligible but it didn't occur to me that that will stop him from travelling all together. That's where I am getting messed up.

So we can't just apply for his visa AND travel AND apply citizenship on the side? the fact that he is citizen means he can't apply for visa?

old.sparkles

Yes - he can't have a visa - Visas are for non-citizens to enter a country

E3only

Ok. So if he is US citizen the only way to get a visa is renounce his right to australian citizenship ?

Pollyana

I guess so. Though I can't see why you would even consider it - and I'm almost certain that wouldn't be any quicker!

E3only

No way I would consider it. But seems odd that my son effectively is forced to have dual citizenship.

Not challenging the system but just little rant.

So how long do citizenship by decent applications take. Any word

Pollyana

He is not forced to be a dual citizen and I assume you would be able to renounce on his behalf - though I really don't know, you would to look into that yourself.

BUT you need to consider the future, when your and your wife are Aussie citizens, but your son is a US citizen.
For instance, you and your wife grow old and retire in Aus, and your son wishes to move here to take care of you in your old age. But he can't, due to him not being in a job that qualifies for a visa, and he can therefore only visit Aus for short periods as a tourist.

old.sparkles

I think if you renounce your citizenship, you may then be able to revoke your sons - is that an option for you?

E3only

That isn't an option. We are going to get him citizenship. In fact it's better we do because my wife's in limbo given she has been so sway from AU for so long so getting his may help her later.

The issue is I am surprised I can't get him there on a visa and simultaneously make an application for citizenship.

Extremely annoyed. This is the first time that the opportunity was right and we have finance to go and we can't.

Bermudashorts

Most people see dual citizenships as a blessing, not something "forced" upon a person. It is not a problem most people would mind having and the only reason it has created difficulties is because you haven't been very forward looking.

You say you have been planning this trip for a long time but have left it until a few weeks before looking into visas or citizenship! You really must know that it is not a process or the system that is wanting here...

Have no idea how long the process takes, but I wouldn't be planning a holiday in April.

E3only

Actually, I was annoyed at myself.

The vacation comment was a overall comment....this is first time time and finances allow us to take an overseas vacation since 3.5 years and the first place was to visit home and friends.

Pollyana

Good luck with the planning , hope it works out in the end

E3only

Thanks,

OK one more question. Want to make sure I plan now and not waste further time.

I am thinking I will need to apply for my wife's citizenship (take a chance with ministerial pardon/discretion becuase she has been away from Australia for a while). I have no idea if she stands a chance but I am going to give it a shot.

I know certain things will help such as family, bank accounts, superannuation still in Australia etc.

Question is.
1. Any guidance on approach
2. More importantly, can I apply for her citizenship AND include my son on it OR do I have to apply for 2 seperate applications?

Thanks,

Pollyana

Its two separate applications.

Your son IS a citizen, you just need to register him and get him a passport.

Your wife needs to apply from scratch. But be aware, even IF they grant it on ministerial discretion it will take longer than a straight forward RRV application. AND she will then need to apply for and get an Aus passport before she can travel to Australia.

Bermudashorts

In all honesty, if you just want to have your holiday in April, I would focus upon the RRV and getting your son's passport. It seems to me like you could really do without this added complication. I am sure you would not get that sorted by your holiday.

And no, you would not get your wife and son citizenship on the same application. They have very different claims to citizenship.