Introduction
New Zealand citizens have special privileges under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement to reside and work in Australia. This article explains how to return to Australia after gaining New Zealand citizenship, focusing on residency, citizenship, and the benefits of the Special Category Visa (SCV).
Automatic Visa Privileges
Upon entering Australia, the SCV is granted electronically to New Zealand Citizens. This visa allows them to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, provided they are New Zealand citizens, and their health and character are satisfactory. The SCV is not a permanent visa. It does not carry the same rights and benefits that might be available to an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Re-establishing Australian Ties
In certain cases, New Zealand citizens may be required to have a continuing connection to Australia with family, property, or work experience in order to permanently return. If they held permanent residence status or were citizens, then they must apply for a Resident Return Visa to get back this status when staying long outside Australia.
Direct Pathway to Citizenship
A direct pathway to Australian citizenship has been available to eligible New Zealand citizens since July 2023. This requires them to have spent at least four years in Australia with a valid visa of which at least one year will have to be as permanent resident of Australia with no more than one year of total absence in the 4 year period. This makes it simpler for New Zealanders who maintain substantial connections to Australia to become citizens.
Educational Opportunities
New Zealand citizens can study at Australian tertiary institutions and are eligible to pay domestic fees. However, they are generally not eligible for HELP loans to cover university fees or student allowances for living costs unless they become Australian citizens. For detailed information on student loans and studying at Australian universities, prospective students should consult the specific educational posts and official Australian immigration resources.
Employment and Residency for Over 55
There is no age limit applied for New Zealand citizens moving to Australia. Hence, people over 55 can easily relocate to Australia and live in the country with no major restrictions. For example, non-NZ citizens may otherwise need to qualify in different visa categories, like Parent or Partner visas, or meet significant investment thresholds.
NZ Permanent Residents and AU Requirements
Permanent residents of New Zealand do not gain SCV by default and must apply for other Australian visa’s, including Employer sponsorship stream or Skilled migration streams, if they wish to live in, work, or study in Australia. This is an important distinction that enables persons who are permanent residents of New Zealand without citizenship to apply for an appropriate visa.
Conclusion
Navigating the return to Australia after becoming a New Zealand citizen involves understanding specific regulations under the Trans-Tasman agreement. New Zealand citizens looking to make Australia their permanent home again should ensure they meet all legal requirements for residency or citizenship. Consulting with us at SOL Edu & Migration we can help you navigate your visa and citizenship process under the Trans-Tasman arrangement.