From 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens with SCV (Subclass 444) visas residing in Australia for four years or more can apply directly for Australian citizenship without needing permanent residence. All Subclass 444 visa holders will be considered permanent residents for citizenship purposes.
In order to meet the general residence requirement for Australian citizenship by conferral, an applicant must be lawfully present in Australia for four years, including 12 months as a permanent resident, immediately before the date of application.
New Zealand citizens with Subclass 444 visas granted before or after 1 July 2022 will also be considered permanent residents for citizenship purposes.
By effect of these changes and as 1 July 2023:
All New Zealand citizens holding an SCV (subclass 444) will be considered permanent residents for citizenship purposes.
New Zealand citizens granted an SCV (subclass 444) before 1 July 2022 will have their period of permanent residence for citizenship purposes backdated to 1 July 2022.
New Zealand citizens granted an SCV for the first time on or after 1 July 2022 will be considered a permanent resident for citizenship purposes from the date of their SCV grant.
Children born to Subclass 444 visa holders in Australia from 1 July 2023 can acquire Australian citizenship at birth.
Those new New Zealand citizens arriving in Australia on an SCV (subclass 444) visa are also eligible to apply for Australian citizenship once they’ve resided onshore for 4 years.
Contact registered migration agents for more information.