Get the latest 2025 Australian citizenship fees, discount eligibility, and exemptions. Learn what’s changed, how much to budget, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Introduction

Planning to apply for Australian citizenship? Starting 1 July 2025, application fees have increased across several categories, reflecting ongoing national policy updates. Understanding the latest costs, exemptions, and what these changes mean for your family is key to avoiding surprises in your citizenship journey.

Key Changes to Australian Citizenship Fees in 2025

From 1 July 2025, the Department of Home Affairs introduced new fee structures for citizenship applications. These changes impact individuals, families, and anyone lodging their forms from this date forward.

Updated Fee Schedule

Type of Application 2025 Fee (AUD)
Citizenship by General Eligibility (Form 1300T) $575
Concession fee (valid Pensioner Concession Card) $80
Child under 16 (applying with parent on same form) Nil
Citizenship – Other Situations (Form 1290) $350
Concession fee (Form 1290, Pensioner Card) $40
Citizenship by Descent (Form 118) $370
Second & Subsequent Sibling by Descent (Form 118) $150
Adoption (Hague Convention/Bilateral, Form 1272) $370
Sibling under Hague at same time (Form 1272) $150
Renunciation (Form 128) $310
Resumption (Form 132) $245
Evidence of Australian Citizenship (Form 119) $280

Note: Most children under 16 applying with a parent do not pay a separate fee. Concession fees require a valid, non-expired Pensioner Concession Card issued by the Australian government.

Who Qualifies for Concessions or Exemptions?

  • Concession Cardholders: If you hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card (primary cardholder or listed as a dependent), you’re eligible for reduced fees on eligible forms.

  • Children: No fee for child applicants under 16 years of age included on the same application as a responsible parent.

  • Special Exemptions:

    • British/Maltese former child migrants (1947–1967)

    • Applicants with at least 90 days of service in the permanent Australian forces

    • Stateless person provisions

Make sure your documentation proves your eligibility for any concession or exemption claimed.

What Else Is New in 2025?

  • Concession Fee Structure: Australians aged 60+ are no longer automatically listed—concession status now depends only on holding a qualifying concession card.

  • Broadening Fee Adjustments: Fees for adoption, evidence of citizenship, renunciation, and resumption have also increased.

  • Child and Sibling Rates: Families benefit from nil fees for eligible children, and reduced fees for additional siblings in certain categories.

  • Annual Indexing: These fees are reviewed and potentially increased each July based on the Consumer Price Index and legal changes.

Tips for Applicants: How to Avoid Surprises

  • Double-Check Your Fee Category: Use the correct form and confirm your eligibility for any concession.

  • Apply as a Family: For multiple children, lodging together can mean significant savings.

  • Budget for Extra Proof: Prepare for minor extra costs (certification, translation, stat decs).

  • Monitor Policy Announcements: Fees and categories may change each financial year.

Conclusion

Citizenship application costs in Australia are updated annually, affecting thousands of new Australians and their families. Knowing the latest fees, planning ahead, and gathering all supporting evidence early ensures your path to citizenship is as smooth and affordable as possible.