Australia affords special status to New Zealand citizens in accord with its very close ties to New Zealand.

First, any New Zealand citizen is automatically granted a Special Category Visa (SCV subclass 444) upon arrival in Australia permitting the New Zealander to live, work and study in Australia for as long as they like. And there is entitlement to Medicare. There is a character formality to meet for this visa and Hallmark can assist with any submissions.

Secondly, any New Zealand citizen on a SCV is able to apply for a spouse or dependent children who may not have NZ citizenship or even NZ permanent residence to join them in Australia on a 5 year visa. (Visa subclass 461 NZ Citizens Family Relationship.) It gives the family the same access to Australia and it is renewable.  

Thirdly, any New Zealand citizen consistently in Australia on a SCV before 26 February 2001 can be classified as an “eligible New Zealand Citizen” and is further entitled to Centrelink benefits if required. Those so classified are able to sponsor a partner or family to come from anywhere to Australia for permanent residence just as can do any permanent resident of Australia or Australian Citizen. Eligible NZ Citizens can apply for Australian Citizenship and hold dual citizenship.   

Finally, New Zealand citizens who have arrived after 26 February 2001 need to become permanent residents of Australia before being able to apply for Australian citizenship. Children born in Australia of New Zealander parents may however be able to consider Australian citizenship without this step.

Contact Hallmark Immigration for advice and assistance in clarifying any status or opportunity for New Zealanders.