I wrote to the DHA
(Virtual Ceremony NSW <
Virtual.Ceremony.NSW@homeaffairs.gov.au>; Ceremony NSW <
ceremony.nsw@homeaffairs.gov.au>)
requesting for virtual ceremony, they are saying is all you need to do is wait.
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OFFICIAL
Dear XX,
Thank you for your email. I can see that your application for Australian citizenship has been approved on xx/xx/xxxx and you will be required to attend a citizenship ceremony as the last step in becoming an Australian citizen.
Due to the ongoing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the average wait times for an allocation to a ceremony have suffered delays. The Department acknowledges the concern of cancellation of approval that has been raised by you.
Generally, conferees have 12 months from their notice of approval to attend a ceremony in Australia and make the pledge of commitment to Australia. However, during the COVID-19 period, citizenship approval may not be cancelled if a conferee has not yet been invited to a citizenship ceremony or unable to attend a ceremony within this 12 month period.
Local government councils in NSW are now undertaking online and in-person ceremonies. These ceremonies must comply with current state guidelines and to meet COVIDSafe requirements.
Individuals will be contacted directly and invited to attend a citizenship ceremony. Invitations are based on the date of approval of the citizenship application. There is no need to contact the Department or your local council about your ceremony. The Department will write to you with details of your ceremony when one has been arranged for you.
Urgent Ceremonies
Urgent ceremonies will only be considered in strictly limited circumstances. In order to qualify for an urgent ceremony you must have exceptional or compelling circumstances. You are required to provide full details along with supporting evidence to demonstrate your exceptional circumstances. To be considered for an urgent ceremony please complete the attached form, all fields must be completed and evidence must be supplied in order for your request to be assessed.
The Department appreciates your understanding in this matter.
Kind regards,
Lynda
NSW Ceremonies Team – Sydney Office
Citizenship and TIS Branch | Citizenship Division
Social Cohesion and Citizenship Group
Department of Home Affairs
Email:
ceremony.nsw@homeaffairs.gov.au
