Visa & Law Updates
Australia's Direct Citizenship Pathway for New Zealanders
Since 1 July 2023, eligible New Zealand citizens who hold a Special Category visa (subclass 444) have been able to apply directly for Australian citizenship by conferral. This article explains who can apply, what is required, and what it means for Kiwis living in Australia.
Migration rules change regularly. Treat this article as a policy snapshot and confirm current requirements with a licensed advisor before relying on it.
On 22 April 2023, Australia announced a direct pathway to Australian citizenship for eligible New Zealand citizens. The pathway has applied since 1 July 2023 to eligible New Zealand citizens who hold a Special Category visa (subclass 444) and meet the citizenship requirements.
Applying directly for Australian citizenship by conferral
Since 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens who hold a Special Category visa (subclass 444) may apply directly for Australian citizenship by conferral, subject to eligibility.
Instead of first applying for and being granted a separate permanent visa, eligible Special Category visa holders can apply for citizenship by conferral directly. Applicants must still meet the usual citizenship requirements, including the residence requirement, and approval is not automatic.
Australia is “proud” to offer citizenship benefits to New Zealanders
The direct pathway made it easier for eligible New Zealanders to obtain Australian citizenship.
Eligible New Zealanders do not need to meet the former New Zealand stream permanent visa requirements, such as income and health criteria, before applying for citizenship through this pathway. Children born in Australia to certain Special Category visa holders on or after 1 July 2022 may also have acquired Australian citizenship automatically at birth. Previously, some children born in Australia to New Zealand citizen parents only became Australian citizens automatically on their 10th birthday, if they were ordinarily resident in Australia for their first 10 years.
At the time of the announcement, the then Minister for Immigration, Andrew Giles, said: “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 in our communities.”
The policy change also brought the rights of New Zealanders living in Australia more in line with those of Australians living in New Zealand. Those who take up citizenship gain access to services and benefits associated with it, such as student loans and unemployment benefits.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said at the time: “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.”
New Zealand welcomed the change in Australia’s immigration policy
New Zealand’s then Prime Minister, Chris Hipkins, welcomed Australia’s decision.
“Today’s announcement brings our nations closer together. It underscores the strength and breadth of the bonds between our countries ahead of my visit this weekend. These changes will make a real and meaningful difference to the lives of many New Zealanders and their children by giving those who decide to take up Australian citizenship similar rights to Australians living in New Zealand”, Mr Hipkins said at the time.
Mr Hipkins also confirmed that New Zealanders who take up Australian citizenship are entitled to dual citizenship.
“Kiwis taking up Australian citizenship will still retain their New Zealand citizenship. These dual citizens are not lost to New Zealand, but draw us closer together.”