Denization (1835-1861)
As set out in the Denization Act, non-British subjects qualified for denization if they had lived 7 years in Van Diemen’s Land or emigrated with a letter of recommendation from the Secretary of State for the colonies.
Letters of denization gave the holder limited rights. It qualified the person to own real estate, accept land grants, and to hold office (except in Executive or Legislative Council).
They applied by sending a petition to the Lieutenant Governor listing:
- native country
- age
- occupation
- number of years they had lived in the colony
Applicants then had to swear the ‘oaths of allegiance, supremacy and abjuration’ within one month, before a judge of the Supreme Court. Registration fees applied.