easygroove

Hi

We got our PR about 12 months ago having arrived in OZ in April 05. I think we are eligible for citizenship, having answered all the questions online.

A few things to understand first:

Are there any advantages/disadvanatges to becoming a citizen?

What is the next step in applying? Sitting the test?

CrystalBall

Unless you will lose some benefit from your original country then it is highly recommended that you apply for Australian Citizenship.

Once you are a Citizen, you get an Australian Passport and you cant "loose" you status for "Character Grounds" as you can with PR.

cheers

Dorothy

You also get to have a say in how your country is run by voting, you can work in the commonwealth government positions, you are eligible for HECS/HELP if you or your children choose to go on to higher education. Loads of reasons it makes sense to become citizens.

Jack-L

Is PR eligible for HECS/HELP? In term of education funding, what is the difference between PR and Citizen? (i.e. How much PR have to pay for higher education vs. Citizen?)

NickyC

Fees are the same for both PR and citizens - however:

Citizens can defer their fees if they want to. If they do pay the fees in full up-front they also get a 20% discount.

PR's do not get this option. They MUST pay the fees up-front and they don't get any discount.

easygroove

Thanks - and the first step in the process to citizenship is.....
booking the test??? what happens after that?
Also I assume children (2.5yrs old) become citizens if parents complete test and application successfully

Dorothy

www.citizenship.gov.au has all the info. You will need to apply for your children's citizenships as well as your own. It's not automatic.