A new fast-track to Australian citizenship has been announced.
New Zealanders living in Australia no longer need to become Australian permanent residents before applying for Australian citizenship.
This represents a major change to previous immigration rules and paves the way for many more Kiwis to become Australian citizens. In short, it’s a huge win for our community.
There are many benefits associated with Australian citizenship, including greater access to grants, certain Government jobs, and higher education loans.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia and New Zealand have a “deep friendship” and acknowledged the many Kiwis currently raising families and building their lives in Australia.
Eligibility
New Zealanders who have been living in Australia for over four years can apply directly for citizenship from 1 July 2023.
Salary thresholds and date of arrival limitations no longer apply.
You will be eligible for citizenship if:
- You have lived in Australia for four years or more on 1 July 2023
- You haven’t spent more than 12 months outside of Australia during the four-year period
- You haven’t spent more than 90 days outside of Australia in the 12 months prior to lodging your citizenship application
- You pass the immigration character test
Some New Zealanders who settled in Australia before 26 February 2001 may already be entitled to citizenship. If you’re one of these people, you won’t have to wait until 1 July 2023 to apply.
Dual Citizenship
New Zealanders can hold dual Australian and Kiwi citizenship. You will have both passports and can enjoy the benefits of citizenship in both countries.
Fees
The citizenship application fee is $490 per adult ($300 if you are 60 years or older). Children under 15 can apply free of charge at the same time as their parents.
You can use a Registered Migration Agent to manage your application. There is an additional fee associated with this service, but an Agent will take the stress out of the process for you and liaise with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf.
Our friends at True Blue Migration Services offer free assessments, if you want to check your eligibility and discuss your options.
Disclaimer: The information displayed on these pages is intended to provide a general overview of some Australian visa types. It is not a substitute for tailored, professional advice relating to your own personal circumstances. There are dozens of Australian visa subclasses; we refer to only a narrow selection here. Migration policies and regulations change frequently. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions relating to the generic information supplied here. You should always seek up-to-date advice from a Registered Migration Agent or refer to the Department of Home Affairs website prior to lodging an application. For more information visit www.truebluemigration.com
