Understanding the 1195 Identity Declaration Form

Verifying your identity is crucial when applying for certain Australian citizenship services. The Form 1195 Identity Declaration is an important document the Australian Department of Home Affairs issued to help confirm an applicant’s identity and safeguard against identity fraud.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about it.
What is Form 1195?
Form 1195 is specifically used for applicants who are seeking:
1. Australian citizenship by descent
2. Evidence of Australian citizenship
Since September 2024, those applying for citizenship by conferral no longer need to complete Form 1195. This change aims to simplify the application process for many prospective citizens.
Who Needs to Complete Form 1195?
Form 1195 has four key sections:
1. Applicant Details
The person applying for citizenship by descent or evidence of citizenship must fill this part out.
2. Authorized Person’s Declaration
An authorized individual must complete this section. To qualify, this person must:
Be an Australian citizen (or a citizen of your country of residence if applying from overseas).
• Have personally known you for at least 12 months.
• Work in a recognized profession (listed on the form’s first two pages).
• Not be related to you by blood, marriage, or a de facto relationship.
• Be easily reachable by phone during standard working hours.
3. Photograph Certification
The authorized person must endorse your passport-sized photo by signing it.
4. Additional Information
This section may request further details if needed.
Photograph Requirements for Form 1195
Your photograph must meet strict guidelines:
• It should be a recent photo, taken within the last six months.
• It must show a clear, full-face view of your head and shoulders.
• Backgrounds should be plain and light-colored.
• Size specifications:
• Width: 35mm to 40mm
• Height: 45mm to 50mm
• The face (from chin to crown) must measure between 32mm and 36mm.
You must glue the photo to the designated spot on the form, and the authorized person must sign across one bottom corner of the photo (without covering your face).
How to Submit the Form?
Once Form 1195 is properly completed and your photo is endorsed:
• Scan pages 3 and 4 of the form, along with the signed photo, into a single file.
• Upload this file to your online application under ‘Form 1195 – Identity declaration’.
• Upload the digital version of your photo separately under ‘Photograph’.
For best results, it’s recommended to get your photo taken at a professional passport photo service, such as an Australia Post outlet, where you can often receive a digital copy too.
Important Legal Considerations
Providing false or misleading information on Form 1195 can have serious consequences. It could result in:
• Refusal of your application
• Criminal charges under the Migration Act 1958 or the Australian Citizenship Act 2007
• Cancellation of citizenship if it was already granted
Always ensure the information you provide is true and accurate.
Where to Access Form 1195
You can download the latest version directly from the Department of Home Affairs website:
Download link for latest version
Final Thoughts
Accurately completing Form 1195 is essential for a smooth application process when applying for Australian citizenship by descent or requesting evidence of citizenship. By following the guidelines carefully and ensuring your photos and declarations meet the required standards, you can avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
For personal assistance with the 1195 identity declaration form, feel free to contact one of the best Nepali Lawyers in Australia: Ghothane Lawyers.
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests related to the 1195 identity declaration form, please contact us at:
Ghothane Lawyers
Email: info@ghothane.com.au
Address: Level 1, 550 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Phone: 1800 886 886
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Let Ghothane Lawyers be your trusted legal partner in Australia!