Australia is making changes to the cost of becoming a citizen. Starting 1 July 2025, the fees for several citizenship application types will be indexed to reflect inflation and the growing cost of administering the program.
In this blog post, we break down the updates, particularly focusing on two key pathways: Citizenship by Conferral and Citizenship by Descent (including birth to an Australian parent abroad).
Why Are the Fees Increasing?
The Australian Citizenship Amendment (Indexation of Fees) Regulations 2025 introduces fee changes in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This approach ensures that the Department of Home Affairs can continue processing applications efficiently and sustainably. The last fee increase occurred in July 2024, so this is part of a scheduled annual update.
According to the government, while some smaller fees remain unchanged due to rounding or exemptions (e.g., concessional applications), most standard application fees will rise slightly from 1 July 2025.
1. Citizenship by Conferral – What’s Changing?
Citizenship by Conferral is the most common pathway to Australian citizenship, usually for permanent residents who meet residency and character requirements. Here’s what’s changing in the standard and concession categories:
General Eligibility (Most Applicants)
- Current fee (until 30 June 2025): $560
- New fee (from 1 July 2025): $575
No Test Required (Other than General Eligibility)
For applicants not required to sit the citizenship test (for example, older applicants or those with certain conditions):
- Fee increases from $345 → $350
2. Citizenship by Descent – Fee Adjustments
Children born outside Australia to an Australian citizen parent can apply for citizenship by descent. The 2025 changes reflect a modest increase:
Single Application
- Current fee: $360
- New fee: $370
Siblings Applying Together
- First child: $370 (up from $360)
- Second and subsequent siblings: $150 (unchanged)
These applications are made under section 16 of the Citizenship Act and are often used when registering children born overseas to Australian citizens.
Key Takeaways
- Fee changes take effect 1 July 2025
- Citizenship by conferral (general) will cost $575
- Citizenship by descent (single child) will cost $370
- Sibling discounts for descent applications still apply
Final Thoughts
Planning to apply for Australian citizenship in the next few months? Consider lodging your application before 30 June 2025 to take advantage of the current fee structure. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or which pathway applies to your situation, we’re here to help.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law
If you require assistance with your Citizenship by Conferral application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help.
Please book a free 15-minute discussion with our team if you have further questions.
Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366
This article does not constitute legal/financial advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For up-to-date information, please consult an immigration professional