Online citizenship ceremonies begin for thousands of permanent residents

Online citizenship ceremonies have begun for thousands of permanent residents waiting to take the next step. The department is aiming to process about 750 would-be citizens a day to clear a backlog of people waiting that’s now reached 90,000. Immigration Minister Alan Tudge says applications for citizenship remain open, but due to social distancing restrictions, his department can't progress to testing and interviewing applicants in person. He says an online alternative is being explored, but the focus now is to complete the process for those already approved.

Fadi and Faris Masarweh attending their virtual citizenship ceremony via video link with department of home affairs. Source: SBS

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