Effective from 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens holding Special Category (SC 444) Visa (SCV) will be deemed to be permanent residents for Australia citizenship purpose. They can directly apply for Australia citizenship without first becoming a permanent resident.
Citizenship
For the benefit of SCV holders living in Australia for a long time before 1 July 2022, the deemed permanent resident status will be backdated, that is from 1 July 2022. SCV holders living in Australia on or after 1 July 2022, will be considered deemed permanent residents from the date of their Special Category Visa. SCV holders can apply for citizenship after legally living in Australia on valid SCV for four years, including 12 months as permanent resident.
Skilled Independent (NZ Stream) Visa Discontinued
With the introduction of the deemed permanent resident status and direct pathway to citizenship, NZ citizens no longer require to apply for permanent resident visa. Accordingly, Skilled Independent (New Zealand Stream) Visa is discontinued for new applicants effective from 1 July 2023.
Contact Us
Contact us if you are a New Zealand citizen holding SCV and wish to apply for Australia citizenship.