New pathway to Australian citizenship for eligible New Zealanders

The announcement we have been waiting for has finally been made. On 22 April 2023, the Australian Government announced a new direct pathway for eligible New Zealand citizens to apply for Australian citizenship. While the legislation is yet to be released, the Government has provided important information about the changes.

From 1 July 2023, eligible New Zealand citizens who have been living in Australia for at least four years can apply for Australian citizenship. An eligible New Zealand citizen is the holder of a Special Category Visa (SCV).

To be eligible for Australian citizenship under the current requirements, you must be of good character and have been lawfully resident in Australia for at least four years, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident before submitting an application. You are allowed to have periods of absence from Australia but they must not add up to more than 12 months in the past four years and no more than three months in the