Can New Zealander Become Australian Citizen

Can a New Zealander Become an Australian Citizen?

New Zealanders enjoy a unique status in Australia thanks to the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, which allows them to live, work and study in Australia without the need for a visa. This arrangement grants New Zealanders a Special Category Visa (SCV) upon arrival, but it does not automatically make them Australian citizens. However, there are pathways available for New Zealanders to become Australian citizens if they wish to do so.

Pathways to Australian Citizenship for New Zealanders:

1. Permanent Residency: New Zealanders who have been living in Australia on a Special Category Visa for a continuous period of at least five years may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. This is known as the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189).

To be eligible for this visa, individuals must meet certain requirements, including the need to have been employed in an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List and pass the points test. Once granted permanent residency, New Zealanders will have most of the same rights as Australian citizens.

2. Citizenship by Descent: If you were born outside Australia and at least one of your parents was an Australian citizen at the time of your birth, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship by descent. This applies to New Zealanders with an Australian citizen parent.

By obtaining citizenship by descent, you will have full rights as an Australian citizen, including the ability to vote, work and live in Australia indefinitely. This is an easier and more straightforward pathway compared to other options.

3. Citizenship through Naturalization: If you have been living in Australia for a significant period of time as a permanent resident, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship through naturalization. This pathway is open to New Zealanders who meet the residency requirements and pass the citizenship test.

The residency requirement is generally at least four years as a permanent resident, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident immediately prior to applying for citizenship. The citizenship test assesses your knowledge of Australia, its history, culture, and values.

Frequently Asked Question:

Q: Can I retain New Zealand citizenship if I become an Australian citizen?

Yes, New Zealand allows its citizens to hold citizenship of another country without losing their New Zealand citizenship. This means that even if you become an Australian citizen, you can retain your New Zealand citizenship if you desire.

Conclusion:

New Zealanders have several pathways available to them if they wish to become Australian citizens. Whether through permanent residency, citizenship by descent, or naturalization, New Zealanders can pursue their goal of obtaining Australian citizenship while still maintaining their New Zealand citizenship. It's important to determine the most suitable pathway based on your individual circumstances and aspirations.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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