Direct Pathway to Australian Citizenship for New Zealand Citizens
Good news for New Zealand citizens residing in Australia: on 22 April 2023, the Australian Government unveiled a direct pathway to Australian citizenship for New Zealand citizens living in Australia.
Beginning 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens who have lived in Australia for at least four years can apply directly for Australian citizenship without first obtaining a permanent visa.
Who Is Eligible?
These changes apply to New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category (subclass 444) visa (SCV) who arrived in Australia after 26 February 2001. Protected SCV holders remain eligible to apply for Australian citizenship directly.
Backdating and Residence Requirement
For long-term New Zealand residents, the period of permanent residence is recognised retrospectively for citizenship purposes, allowing applicants to meet the 12-month permanent residence element of the general residence requirement.
Under the Australian Citizenship Act 2007, the general residence requirement for citizenship by conferral requires lawful presence in Australia for four years, including 12 months as a permanent resident, immediately before applying.
- All New Zealand citizens with an SCV are treated as permanent residents for citizenship purposes.
- SCV holders granted before 1 July 2022 have their permanent residence period backdated to 1 July 2022.
- SCV holders granted for the first time on or after 1 July 2022 are recognised as permanent residents for citizenship purposes from their SCV grant date.
These provisions apply to New Zealand citizens in Australia and to those overseas who held an SCV immediately before last departing Australia.
Key Dates and Cautions
These provisions do not apply to applications lodged before 1 July 2023. Applications submitted before that date that do not meet eligibility will be refused and fees will not be refunded.
Get Help
Applying for Australian citizenship or an Australian visa can be complex and time-consuming. Contact our expert immigration lawyers for a free initial consultation. You can also review official guidance at the Department of Home Affairs citizenship portal.
