Australia: residency, citizenship and cost of living
Paths checked against sources: 2026-10
Path to citizenship
Citizenship needs 4 years of lawful residence, at least one of them as a permanent resident; absences — no more than 12 months in 4 years and no more than 90 days in the final year. Dual citizenship is allowed. The points-tested route (189/190) depends on an invitation and is not guaranteed.
- • 4 years of residence, one of them as a permanent resident
- • 4 years of residence for New Zealand citizens
Citizenship application processing, years: 1–1.7.
Check your own pathMonthly budget
Average lifestyle, employed; data as of 10.2026. Deposits, furniture and the move itself are not included.
| City | Single | Family 2+2 |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | A$4,540≈ €2,840 | A$7,640≈ €4,770 |
| Melbourne | A$3,740≈ €2,330 | A$6,520≈ €4,070 |
| Brisbane | A$3,800≈ €2,370 | A$6,450≈ €4,030 |
| Perth | A$3,820≈ €2,390 | A$7,050≈ €4,400 |
Country scores (out of 100)
- Safety84
- Earning potential88
- Healthcare93
- Path to citizenship74
- Schools and education74
- Environment94
- Warm, sunny climate88
Frequently asked questions
How do you get citizenship in Australia, and how long does it take?
4 years of residence, one of them as a permanent resident; 4 years of residence for New Zealand citizens. Processing takes 1–1.7 years. The questionnaire shows the timeline for your situation.
How do you get residency in Australia?
The main routes we cover: New Zealand citizen in Australia; Skills in Demand visa; Permanent residence; Temporary partner visa; Study and graduate visa. The questionnaire shows which fit you and where they lead next.
How much does it cost to live in Australia per month?
Per month, one person / family of four: Sydney ≈ A$4,540 / A$7,640; Melbourne ≈ A$3,740 / A$6,520; Brisbane ≈ A$3,800 / A$6,450; Perth ≈ A$3,820 / A$7,050. Average lifestyle, employed; data as of 10.2026.
How much is rent in Australia?
A home for one person, from modest to comfortable: Sydney A$2,840–A$3,340; Melbourne A$2,160–A$2,540; Brisbane A$2,380–A$2,800; Perth A$2,270–A$2,670.
How up to date is this data?
Paths to citizenship checked against sources: 10.2026; budget as of 10.2026. Sources are listed on this page; rules change, so check official sites before deciding.
Sources
- Citizenship
- Skills in Demand visa (482) from a sponsoring employer, then the permanent 186 visa (Temporary Residence Transition) after 2 years with the sponsor; employer-sponsored permanent visas have priority in 2026–27
- Points-tested 189/190 visas — by invitation, not guaranteed
- Student visa 500, then the Temporary Graduate visa 485 for 2–4 years to find a job and sponsor
- From 1 July 2023 New Zealand citizens on a 444 visa who have lived in Australia for 4 years apply for citizenship directly, without permanent residence (Prime Minister's release, Home Affairs)
- Home Affairs
- Home Affairs 2026 data
This is not legal advice. Rules change — check official sources before deciding.