Can Kiwis in Australia permanently reside here?

Kiwis in Australia can live here indefinitely if they are a New Zealand citizen. New Zealand citizens are eligible to apply for a Special Category visa (subclass 444), which allows them to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. No restrictions exist on how long you can stay in Australia on a Special Category visa.

A 444 visa ceases on departure from Australia. A 444 visa is granted on each arrival to Australia.

To be eligible for a 444 visa, you must:

- be a New Zealand Citizen

- not be of a health concern. A health concern would include having Tuberculosis.

- Not be a behaviour concern non-citizen.

You could be assessed as a BCNC if you have been:

-convicted of a crime that has resulted in a sentence of death or imprisonment for at least one year

-convicted of two or more crimes resulting in sentences of imprisonment for periods that total at least one year

-charged with, and found guilty of a crime while of unsound mind. This also includes if you were found not guilty because the crime was committed while of unsound mind

-removed or deported from Australia in the past

-removed or deported from another country in the past

If you require further assistance, speak to one of our Registered Migration Agents today.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case-specific information or advice, please get in touch with SCA Connect.