Why citizenship applications are refused
- Not enough days of physical presence, or travel records that do not match the application.
- Failing the test or language assessment, or missing appointments.
- Not filing taxes as required.
- A prohibition, such as a pending charge, recent conviction or removal order.
- Not responding to a residence questionnaire or request for documents.
Before a refusal, officers often send a residence questionnaire or call you to a hearing. A careful, well-documented response at that stage avoids most refusals.
After a refusal
There is no appeal. The options are a new application, where the problem can be fixed, for example by accumulating more days, or an application for leave and judicial review at the Federal Court, which must be filed quickly. We assess both and coordinate with litigation counsel where review is the better route.
Revocation
The Minister can start revocation where citizenship was obtained by false representation, fraud or knowingly hiding material circumstances. Examples include a hidden criminal record, a false residence history, or misrepresentation in the original PR application.
- NoticeYou receive a notice setting out the grounds and your options.
- Submissions or Federal CourtYou can make written submissions, including about your personal circumstances and the best interests of any child. In many cases you can ask that the case be referred to the Federal Court instead. Deadlines are short.
- DecisionIf citizenship is revoked, you usually become a permanent resident again. Where the fraud related to the PR application itself, you may become a foreign national facing removal.
Last reviewed November 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration law and IRB procedure change often; we confirm the current rules for your file at your consultation.