AUSTRALIAN CITIZENSHIP FOR NEW ZEALANDERS

If you’re a Kiwi living in Australia, you might be wondering how to take that next big step and become an Australian citizen. The good news? It’s now easier than ever for New Zealanders to make it happen.

As of 1 July 2023, big changes mean many New Zealand citizens can apply directly for Australian citizenship — without needing to get permanent residency first. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Become an Australian Citizen?

Becoming an Aussie citizen means more than just paperwork — it gives you the right to vote, access certain jobs and services, government support, and truly feel at home in the country you’ve chosen to live in.

What Changed in 2023?

Before July 2023, most Kiwis had to go through extra steps to become permanent residents first. Now, if you’ve been living in Australia on an SCV for at least 4 years, you’re treated as a permanent resident for citizenship purposes. That means you can skip the permanent residency application and go straight to applying for citizenship — a huge win for many New Zealanders.

Are You Eligible?

To apply for Australian citizenship as a New Zealand citizen, here’s what you’ll generally need:

• You pass the citizenship test (if you’re between 18 and 59).
• You’re considered to be of good character.
• You’re a New Zealand citizen holding a Special Category Visa (SCV) — which most Kiwis get automatically when arriving in Australia.
• You’ve been living in Australia for at least 4 years.
• You’ve held your SCV (or another eligible visa) for at least 12 months before applying.
• You meet the residency requirement, which usually means:
• You haven’t been out of Australia for more than 12 months in the last 4 years.
• You haven’t spent more than 90 days overseas in the 12 months before applying.

How to Apply for Australian Citizenship

1. Attend your citizenship ceremony
   Once approved, you’ll be invited to a local ceremony where you officially become an Australian citizen. It’s a proud moment — don’t forget to bring your family an
2. Make sure you’re eligible
   Check the latest requirements on the Home Affairs website.
3. Get your documents together
   You’ll need ID, proof of when you arrived and how long you’ve been in Australia, plus a few other details.
4. Apply online
   Fill out the application form and pay the fee. It’s all done through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
5. Do the citizenship test and interview
   If required, you’ll be invited to take the test and attend an interview. Don’t worry — there are lots of resources to help you prepare.
6. Wait for your approval
   Processing times vary, but it can take anywhere from a few months to around a year.