Update (October 2026)
These changes took effect on 1 July 2023 and still apply. New Zealand citizens who hold a Special Category visa (subclass 444) can apply for Australian citizenship by conferral once they meet the 4 year residence requirement (including 12 months as a permanent resident for citizenship purposes) and the other criteria, without first getting a permanent visa. The 189 New Zealand stream closed to new applications on 1 July 2023. The citizenship application fee is $595. See our citizenship residence requirement guide and citizenship processing times.
From 1 July 2023
- Long term New Zealand citizens resident in Australia will have their period of permanent residence backdated for citizenship purposes
- All New Zealand citizens holding an SCV (SC444) will be considered permanent residents for citizenship purposes.
- New Zealand citizens granted an SCV (SC444) before 1 July 2022 will have their period of permanent residence for citizenship purposes backdated to 1 July 2022.
- New Zealand citizens granted an SCV for the first time on or after 1 July 2022 will be considered a permanent resident for citizenship purposes from the date of their SCV grant.
- Provisions will also apply to New Zealand citizens who are overseas, but held an SCV immediately before last leaving Australia.
Children of SCV holders
- From 1 July 2023, any child born in Australia on or after 1 July 2022 to an SCV holder may automatically acquire Australian citizenship at birth.
- From 1 July 2023, children who meet these circumstances can apply for evidence of citizenship.
Australia citizenship applications until 1 July 2023
These provisions will not apply to citizenship applications submitted before 1 July 2023. Applications submitted before this date were assessed against the requirements in place when they were lodged.
Changes in 2001 made it more difficult for New Zealanders in Australia to attain citizenship.
DHA have announced that from 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens living in Australia will have a direct pathway to Australian citizenship.
All Special Category Visa holders will be able to apply directly for citizenship without becoming permanent residents first, as long as they meet a four-year residence and other eligibility requirements.
This is a fair change for New Zealanders living in Australia, and brings their rights more in line with Australians living in New Zealand. This is consistent with our ambition to build a fairer, better managed and more inclusive migration system.
Many New Zealand citizens choose to live and contribute to Australia, so it is reasonable they have the opportunity to become Australian citizens and enjoy the rights and obligations that come from citizenship.
Government announcement: quotes from the Prime Minister and Ministers (April 2023)
Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Albanese:
“Australia and New Zealand have a deep friendship, which has been forged through our history, shared values and common outlook.
“As we mark the 50th anniversary of the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, I look forward to strengthening our relationship.”
“We know that many New Zealanders are here on a Special Category Visa while raising families, working and building their lives in Australia. So I am proud to offer the benefits that citizenship provides.”
Quotes attributable to Minister Clare O’Neil:
“Australians and New Zealanders share a special bond and it’s important that we reflect that in the way we treat New Zealand citizens who choose to make Australia home.
“Today’s changes will strengthen ties with our closest neighbour, and will mean the many people already living and working in our communities can enjoy the benefits of citizenship.
“Anthony Albanese is ensuring the deep, strong connection between our two countries is reflected in how we treat Kiwis living in Australia.”
Quotes attributable to Minister Andrew Giles:
“Australia is a country built on citizenship. It is only fair the opportunity to become an Australian Citizen is made easier for our closest friends and allies.
“This announcement will make a significant difference to the lives of people already living and working and in our communities.”
Related:
- Massive changes proposed for the Migration System
- New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship visa (subclass 461)
- Special Category visa (subclass 444)
- Australian Permanent Residency for New Zealand citizens
- Skilled Independent (subclass 189) (New Zealand) stream
- Changes for New Zealand 189 visa
- How does a New Zealander become an Australian Citizen
Settle in Australia guides
- Settle in Australia: a guide for new arrivals
- Resident Return visa (155 and 157)
- Resident Return visa subclass 155
- Resident Return visa subclass 157
- Applying for Australian citizenship
- Australian citizenship residence requirement
- Citizenship eligibility assessment
- Citizenship document checklist
- Citizenship practice test questions
- Visas eligible for Medicare
Australian Migration News: October 2026 Update
Student visa changes from 2 October 2026
After Graduation in Australia: Key PR Pathways for International Students in 2026
What the New Migration Reforms Mean for You
Australia Stops New International Student Enrolments in Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning)