How Easy is It to Become an Australian Citizen?

I am a Nigerian citizen and I was wondering how easy it would be to become an Australian Citizen after migrating there?

The truth is...It is not easy; however, it is quite possible and very much worth the effort.

It is easy assuming you or one of your parents has previously held Australian Citizenship.

However, just like me, if you do not have a parent who is Australian, do not lose heart. I will show you the steps you need to follow.

1    First, you need to be in Australia. You need to apply for some form of visa that allows residency (I mean not just visiting or tourist visa) such as a Skilled Migrant Visa. 

2    After this, you can apply for permanent residency, which gives you close to citizenship-style rights. 

3    After living in Australia for 4 years as a permanent resident, you can apply for citizenship.

Other routes are studying for at least 2 years (Masters), holding engineering, or medical degree. These can help along the process. After this, State or employer sponsorship can certainly help in obtain a working visa.

You could also apply for an Independent Skilled Migrant Visa (that is non sponsored) but this can take years to get approved.  Of course, to apply for this in the first place your profession needs to be on the Skilled Occupation List: http://www.immi.gov.au/allforms/pdf/1121i.pdf
                                                     

Also you need to ensure you have enough money to survive in Australia while you search for job, personally I would say start with at least $10,000 (based on my finding on living costs in Major cities of Australia ) to get through the first couple of months (this includes obtaining accommodation e.t.c.)

As you can see, it is a difficult process and requires lots of patience and hard work, but if you persevere and really want this then go for it. The result justifies the challenging journey.

Good luck in your journey to Australia.

For more information:
http://www.immi.gov.au
                                                           

Your comments are highly appreciated. Migrate Safe!