External
Policy
Overview

In order to establish residency, it must first be decided if a person is an Australian resident. One definition of an Australian resident is a person who resides in Australia, is the holder of a special category visa and is likely to remain permanently in Australia. Below are details of what constitutes a special category visa.     

Who's Eligible

A special category visa is issued to New Zealand citizens entering Australia that permits them to live and work in Australia indefinitely. There is no formal application process for the visa. When the New Zealand passport is presented at immigration clearance, it will be stamped showing the date of arrival in Australia. This is the only evidence provided, or necessary to show they are holders of a special category visa.