On 22 April 2023, the Australian Government announced that from 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens living in Australia will have a direct pathway to obtaining Australian citizenship.
All New Zealand citizens who hold a permanent visa or a Special Category (subclass 444) visa (SCV) are eligible to apply directly for citizenship (by conferral).
New Zealand citizens who have been living in Australia for four years or more or who hold a Special Category (subclass 444) visa will be eligible to apply directly for Australian citizenship. This means that New Zealand citizens will no longer need to first apply for and be granted a permanent residence visa and can apply from a temporary residence visa.
New Zealand citizen SCV holders with a pending Partner, Parent, Child or Other Family type visa application, who on 1 July 2023 may be eligible to apply for citizenship by conferral, may wish to consider withdrawing their application. Applicants should still consider their circumstances, the impact on family members and their pending visa applications and timeframes.
Children of New Zealand Citizens
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.
“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.”
- Hon Clare O’Neil MP, Minister for Home Affairs
For further information and assistance please contact:
O’Sullivan and Ruffilli, Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries and Immigration Lawyers
175 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy VIC 3065
03 9416 3463
email@osullivanandruffilli.com.au