Campaigning for the fair treatment of New Zealanders living in Australia

Visa Status of New Zealanders in Australia

Australian Immigration passport stamp
Australian Immigration passport stamp

New Zealanders have always been able to freely travel to, and work in, Australia. Since 1994 changes to the Migration Act 1958 and Social Security Act 1991 have seen New Zealanders residency status change according to some key dates.

The changing residency status, and citizenship pathways, of New Zealanders residing in Australia are outlined below.

Visa status of New Zealanders in Australia

Exempt non-citizen

Until 31 August 1994 New Zealand citizens in Australia were exempt non-citizens and considered permanent residents whilst in Australia.

Since 1 September 1994, all non-citizens in Australia are required to hold a visa so the Special Category Visa (SCV) was introduced for New Zealand citizens. The SCV is a temporary visa issued automatically upon arrival in Australia, and cancelled when departing Australia.

Can apply for citizenship if they are a Protected SCV, otherwise eligible for a Resident Return Visa as first entered Australia prior to 1 September 1994.

Protected Special Category Visa-holder

New Zealand citizens in Australia are considered a Protected Special Category Visa-holder if they:

Can apply for citizenship subject to meeting the required residency, security and character checks.

Non-Protected Special Category Visa-holder

New Zealand citizens who first arrived in Australia after 26th February 2001, or who do not meet the Protected Special Category Visa criteria, are considered non-protected Special Category Visa-holders.

Following a review of New Zealanders rights in Australia the Albanese Labor Government announced in April 2023 that non-protected Special Category Visa-holders who have resided in Australia for at least the past four years can apply directly for citizenship from the 1 July 2023 without needing to apply for a permanent visa.

Additional Information

The above Citizenship Pathway information only reflects eligibility by date of arrival in Australia. Refer to your options for citizenship for more information.

Find out more about the status of New Zealanders in Australia.

Check your visa status using VEVO.

Download a copy of the Visa Status of New Zealanders in Australia table.


Disclaimer

The above “Visa status of New Zealanders in Australia” information should not be relied on as an alternative to advice from the Department of Home Affairs, or a professional immigration services provider.

If you have any specific questions about an immigration matter, you should consult the Department of Home Affairs or a professional immigration services provider.


Donate

Oz Kiwi is run by volunteers and entirely funded by public donations. Please consider donating to help Oz Kiwi advocate on behalf of New Zealanders living in Australia.

Thank you for your support.