Moving to Australia Frequently Asked Questions

Below are a list of frequently asked questions we get regularly. If there is something you want to know please use the comment form at the bottom of the page.

Can Kiwis live in Australia?

YES… Under the SCV (Special Category Visa), New Zealanders are allowed to work and live in Australia permanently. They can live, work, study, purchase property and enjoy beautiful Australia.

And with the direct pathway to citizenship, New Zealanders (lovingly known as Kiwis, our national bird) can now apply for Australian citizenship after living in Australia for four years! Read more in my direct pathway to citizenship for New Zealanders in Australia post.

Can New Zealand Citizens work in Australia?

Yes! New Zealand citizens are allowed to work in Australia without restrictions. When entering Australia, NZ citizens are granted an SCV (Special Category Visa); this allows us to live, work, or study as long as we remain NZ citizens, subject to health or character considerations.

As an SCV is not a permanent visa, visa holders do not have the same rights and benefits as Australian citizens or permanent residents, so you should apply for Australian citizenship after living in Australia for four consecutive years. Read more about SCV Visa Exclusions or becoming an Australian citizen.

Can New Zealand citizens study in Australia?

New Zealand citizens can study in Australia at an Australian tertiary institution and are eligible to pay domestic fees instead of international fees.

However, most New Zealand citizens are not eligible for a student loan, known in Australia as a Help loan, to pay university fees or a student allowance for living costs. You will need to get Australian citizenship to get a student loan.

For more information, read my student loans post or the section applying to study at Australian universities in my schools in Australia post.

Can you move to Australia over 60?

The good news is that there is no age limit for New Zealand citizens moving to Australia, even 60+! You can move to Australia at any age as a NZ citizen, which is very fortunate, as the rest of the world is not.

If you are not an NZ citizen, you typically need to qualify for a Parent or Partner visa or have at least AUD $5 million to invest in approved investments (excluding real estate). For more detailed information, consult the official Australian immigration resources or seek advice from a migration specialist.

Can someone with a New Zealand Permanent Residency work in Australia?

Unfortunately, New Zealand permanent residency does not entitle you to an SCV (Special Category Visa), which NZ citizens automatically get granted when they enter Australia. If you are a New Zealand permanent resident, you must apply for a visa to live and work in Australia.

Do New Zealand permanent residents need a visa for Australia?

Yes, New Zealanders with permanent residency need a visa to work, study and live in Australia. Most New Zealand citizens can visit, live and work in Australia without applying for a tourist or work visa.

Permanent residents in NZ need to apply for a visa. For more detailed information, consult the official