Key Points
- Australia introduced a direct pathway for New Zealand citizens to apply for Australian citizenship beginning July 1, 2023
Overview
The government of Australia introduced a direct pathway for New Zealand citizens to apply for Australian citizenship beginning July 1, 2023.
Eligible applicants include New Zealand citizens who have lived in Australia for the past four years or more and who have held permanent residence status for a period of at least 12 months.
Holders of Special Category visas (SCV) who arrived in Australia after February 26, 2001, will be automatically considered permanent residents for citizenship purposes. New Zealand citizens granted an SCV before July 1, 2022, will have the period of permanent residence for citizenship purposes backdated to July 1, 2022.
These measures will also apply to New Zealand citizens currently residing overseas but who held a valid SCV when they last left Australia. For further information on eligibility under these new measures, check here.
What are the Changes?
The government of Australia introduced new pathways for citizenship for citizens of New Zealand. According to the government announcement, these measures reflect Australia’s close ties with New Zealand and highlight the positive contribution that New Zealand citizens make to Australia.
Looking Ahead
Continue to check the government of Australia’s website for the latest updates and information.
Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global
Source: Australian Government, Department of Home Affairs
