You may be eligible to become an Australian citizen under this Subdivision   in 7 situations:

•   you satisfy the general eligibility criteria and have successfully completed a citizenship test: see subsections   21(2) and (2A); or

•   you have a permanent or enduring physical or mental incapacity: see subsection   21(3); or

•   you are aged 60 or over or have a hearing, speech or sight impairment: see subsection   21(4); or

•   you are aged under 18: see subsection   21(5); or

•   you were born to a former Australian citizen: see subsection   21(6); or

•   you were born in Papua: see subsection   21(7); or

•   you are a stateless person: see subsection   21(8).

You must make an application to become an Australian citizen. The Minister must approve or refuse you becoming an Australian citizen.

You must be eligible to be an Australian citizen to be approved. You may be refused citizenship even if you are eligible.

The Minister may be required to refuse your application on grounds relating to:

•   non - satisfaction of identity: see subsection   24(3); or

•   national security: see subsections   24(4) to (4C); or

•   non - presence in Australia: see subsection   24(5); or

•   offences: see subsection   24(6); or

•   cessation of citizenship: see subsection   24(7).

You may need to make a pledge of commitment to become an Australian citizen.