Citizenship & Residency Calculator

No. This calculator provides a general, indicative estimate only, based on the information provided, and does not constitute legal advice. The Department of Home Affairs assesses your actual eligibility using its own records at the time you lodge your application. Speak with one of our migration lawyers to confirm your eligibility and the right time to apply.

No. The residence and absence requirements are one part of a broader set of conditions, which also include character requirements, an intention to reside in or maintain a close association with Australia, and, for most applicants aged 18 to 59, passing the Australian citizenship test. This calculator focuses specifically on the residence and absence calculation.

Yes. Even if you have lived in Australia for four years in total, the last 12 months of that period must specifically be as a permanent resident or Subclass 444 holder. If your permanent visa was granted recently, you will generally need to wait until that 12-month period is complete before applying.

Time spent outside Australia counts against your residence calculation. You are allowed up to 12 months of total absences across the full four-year period, and no more than 90 days in the 12 months immediately before you apply. Exceeding either limit means you do not currently meet the general residence requirement, though your eligibility date may simply shift later rather than being permanently affected.

Yes. Time spent lawfully in Australia on a temporary visa, such as a Student, Skilled, or Bridging visa, can count toward the four-year total. However, the final 12 months of that period must specifically be held as a permanent resident, a temporary visa alone during that final year will not satisfy the requirement.

You must have been living in Australia on a valid visa for four years immediately before you apply, with the final 12 months of that period held as a permanent resident, or as a Special Category (Subclass 444) visa holder. You must also not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total across those four years, or more than 90 days in the 12 months immediately before applying.