Question 1

Can New Zealand citizens apply for Australian permanent residence?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Since July 2023, NZ citizens who have lived in Australia for at least 4 years (including at least 1 year immediately before applying) can apply for Australian PR through the subclass 189 visa (NZ citizen stream) without needing a job offer, skills assessment, or points test. Those who arrived before 26 February 2001 have a different pathway. Compass Migration specialises in assessing which pathway applies to you and managing the full application.

Question 2

What is the subclass 444 Special Category Visa?

Accepted Answer

The subclass 444 is the visa automatically granted to NZ citizens when they arrive in Australia. It allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely, but it is not a permanent residence visa — it does not give you access to most Centrelink payments, aged care, or NDIS services, and it does not count toward citizenship. Compass Migration can advise you on when and how to transition from 444 to Australian PR.

Question 3

How long does it take to get Australian PR as an NZ citizen?

Accepted Answer

Under the post-2023 pathway, processing for the 189 NZ stream has been relatively fast — typically 3–8 months. You must have lived in Australia for at least 4 years total and 1 year immediately before applying. Compass Migration will check your travel history, confirm your eligibility, and prepare your application to minimise delays.

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