Australian Citizenship For New Zealanders

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How To Apply For Australian Citizenship As A New Zealander

In 1973, the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement (TTTA) was implemented to enable citizens from both countries to freely travel, work, and reside in each other’s country. Since then, New Zealanders who want to travel and live in Australia, and vice versa, are able to do so without the need for a travel authority.

Just fairly recently, the Australian Government announced a direct pathway for a New Zealand citizen applying for Australian Citizenship. What are the eligibility criteria, requirements, and processes, read on to know more about this worthwhile opportunity.

Direct Pathway To Australian Citizenship For New Zealand Citizens

Applying for Australian citizenship as a New Zealander has never been easier with the introduction of a direct pathway to Australian citizenship for New Zealanders. This recent development carries an essential milestone in the bond of the two countries. It addresses and commends the valuable contributions of New Zealanders in Australia, promoting equality and inclusivity.

The new pathway for Australian citizenship application for New Zealand citizens makes it possible for the latter to apply directly for citizenship without the need for a permanent residency visa. As such, upon citizenship grant, New Zealanders can enjoy the following entitlements as newly conferred Australian citizens:

Visa-free travel to up to 189 destinations

Australia was ranked 6th in the latest Henley Passport Index as having one of the most powerful passports in the world, wherein Australian passport holders and citizens are able to travel to 189 destinations without the hassle and delay of securing a valid travel visa.

Work for the federal government

As a permanent resident, you are entitled to work in Australia. However, becoming an Australian citizen allows you to work for the federal government, including jobs in the Australian Defence Force and Australian Federal Police.

Participate in local and national elections

Become a part of making meaningful changes in Australia by participating in local and national elections and elect leaders that support causes and advocacies that you yourself support and advocate for.

Consular support and no deportation risks

If you are overseas and an emergency happens, you will receive assistance through embassies and consulates who will coordinate with local authorities to provide support to affected Australians. Unlike permanent residents, you also cannot be deported if you become an Australian citizen.

Greater access to government services

The Australian Government invests in its people’s overall welfare by providing social security services. As a full fledged Australian citizen, you are entitled to government services for education, healthcare, housing, loans, and more!

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Qualifications For Australian Citizenship Application Of New Zealanders

A New Zealander applying for Australian citizenship must first satisfy certain eligibility requirements. These are as follows.

  • You must be a permanent visa holder or a subclass 444 visa holder for the last twelve (12) months immediately prior to your application date
  • You must be living in Australia for at least four (4) years as a New Zealand citizen
  • You must not have been outside Australia for more than twelve (12) months from the past four (4) years. You must also not have been absent in Australia for more than 90 days from the last 12 months immediately prior to your application date.
  • Minor applicants below 16 are exempted from the residency requirement but must be permanent residents.
  • For 16 to 17-year-old candidates, exemptions may also apply provided you establish proof that meeting this requirement would be disadvantageous.
  • You must possess a good character, pass the citizenship test, establish commitment and close link to Australia, and speak English fluently.

How To Apply For Australian Citizenship As A New Zealander

Here are the essential steps to apply for Australian citizenship for New Zealanders.

1

Make sure to check your visa status

Before anything else, checking whether you’re eligible or you satisfy the basic eligibility requirements is a must. You can check your visa status via the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO). You may also refer to the criteria above as a guide.

2

Prepare your documents

Once you find that you meet all the basic requirements, you must move forward by gathering the necessary documents. These documents are:

  • Identity documents showing your personal and basic details, such as your passport, photos, and a birth certificate
  • Police certificates for the character requirement
  • Scanned copies of original documents if applying online
  • Certified copies of original documents if applying via paper
  • All pertinent documents that you think will positively contribute to your citizenship application

3

Lodge your application

Once you’re done preparing the necessary documents, ideally, you must apply online. Make sure to upload and attach ALL
documents required. You can also make the payments conveniently online to complete your application.

4

Citizenship appointment

The Department will send you a letter detailing your appointment date for the interview and citizenship test (applicable only to candidates aged 18 to 59). You may or you may not need to sit the citizenship test. Notably, receiving a letter may take several months depending on individual circumstances.

5

Waiting time

The Department will notify you regarding the outcome of your application, whether it’s approved or refused. The assessing officer may also request for additional information to further evaluate your case, so be sure to submit them on time to avoid delays.

6

Attend the ceremony

Claim it: your citizenship application will be approved! After that, you will have to attend the ceremony for the Australian Citizenship Pledge. You will be notified via an invitation letter to let you know about the event date.

Australian Citizenship for New Zealand Citizens Cost

For adult applicants, application fees are A540. For candidates aged 16 to 17 years, the cost is AUD $330. For 15-year-olds and below, it’s free of charge if they are part of the parent’s application. See the complete list of fees including concessions and exemptions through the Department’s official website.

How can a New Zealander get Australian Citizenship?

If you are a New Zealand citizen aspiring to become an Australian citizen, you can apply for citizenship if you hold either a
permanent visa or a Special Category visa subclass 444.

In addition, effective 1 July 2023, New Zealanders are given a surer pathway to citizenship by conferral as they can directly apply without a PR visa, provided they have been lawfully living in Australia for at least four (4) years and satisfy all other eligibility requirements, such as, but not limited to, age, health, and character checks.

Can you live in Australia with a New Zealand passport?

Most New Zealanders don’t need a valid visa to enter Australia. Upon entry, they can apply for a Special Category visa or the subclass 444. You can also apply for a permanent visa if you are eligible. Meanwhile, on and after 1 July 2023, the Department announced that New Zealanders can apply for citizenship by conferral without having to first secure a permanent Australian visa.

Is it worth moving to Australia from New Zealand?

Definitely. Moving to Australia entitles you with great job opportunities, high-quality educational institutions, scenic landscapes, work-life balance, and more!

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Parish Patience: Your Trusted Immigration Lawyers


At Parish Patience, we are dedicated to giving you full and professional assistance on your application journey for Australian citizenship. No matter how complex, with our expertise in immigration field, we always aim to meet and satisfy all your needs.

Our team of skilled migration lawyers are always ready to accommodate your concerns and will provide you with cost-effective solutions. You can rest easy knowing that you have a legal partner who will assist you with the entire citizenship lodgement process, help you understand its complexities, and guarantee your success.

Book your appointment today by calling our office via 02 9286 8700 or send an email to: ppmail@ppilaw.com.au

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