Australian Citizenship Through Military Service
Join the ADF and fast-track your Aussie citizenship!
Why Earn Citizenship Through ADF Service?
Australia now opens its military ranks to permanent residents, offering a fast path to citizenship through service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Announced in June 2024 and implemented in 2025, this initiative lets you serve just 90 days to become eligible for citizenship—no lengthy residency required. Ready to defend Down Under and call it home? Let’s dive in!
Eligibility & Requirements
Who Can Apply?
- Permanent residents of Australia
- Citizens of any country (started with NZ, now all eligible)
- Aged 17-50 (varies by role)
Key Requirements
- 1 year of residency in Australia before applying
- No foreign military service in the last 2 years
- 90 days of ADF service for citizenship eligibility
- Pass security, medical, and fitness checks
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Enlist in the ADF
Apply online at adfcareers.gov.au as a permanent resident—started January 2025 for all nationalities.
Pass Initial Checks
Clear security, medical, and fitness assessments to join.
Serve 90 Days
Complete 90 days of honorable service in the ADF.
Apply for Citizenship
Submit your citizenship application via Home Affairs—processed in 3-6 months.
Take the Oath
Pledge allegiance at a ceremony and become an Aussie citizen—done!
Benefits of ADF Citizenship
Super Fast Track
Citizenship after just 90 days of service!
No Residency Wait
Skips the usual 4-year residency rule.
Career Boost
Gain skills and a job with the ADF.
Cost of Australian Military Citizenship
What’s the cost to join the ADF and become a citizen? Here’s the breakdown for 2025:
| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| ADF Application | $0 | No fee to enlist—ADF covers it! |
| Citizenship Fee | $540 | Standard adult citizenship application fee. |
| Additional Costs | $50–$200 | Medical checks, documents, travel. |
| Total Estimate | $590–$740 | Low cost for a top-tier passport! |
*Note: Costs assume permanent residency already granted—travel to Australia varies.
Latest Updates (Feb 2025)
- Policy active as of Feb 28, 2025—expanded to all permanent residents since Jan 2025.
- ADF recruited 350+ foreigners in Jan-Feb 2025, per early Defense reports.
- Citizenship processing steady at 3-6 months post-90 days service.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to be a resident first?
Yes—1 year as a permanent resident.
2. Can any nationality join?
Yes, all permanent residents since Jan 2025!
3. What if I’ve served elsewhere?
No foreign service in the last 2 years.
4. Do I need English skills?
Yes, competent English for ADF entry.
5. How fast is citizenship?
3-6 months after 90 days of service.
References
- ADF Careers: Recruitment Portal
- Department of Home Affairs: Citizenship Process
- National Defence Strategy (April 2024): ADF Expansion
- SBS News: Foreign Recruitment Policy (June 2024)