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Subclass 444 Special Category Visa 2026: New Zealand Citizens in Australia
The Special Category visa (subclass 444), commonly called the SCV, is the temporary visa most New Zealand citizens use to enter, live, work and study in Australia.
How is the SCV granted?
A New Zealand citizen with a valid New Zealand passport does not generally need to obtain another Australian visa before travel. The person usually applies for the SCV when entering Australia, and the application is processed at the airport or seaport if the eligibility criteria are met.
Official source: Department of Home Affairs — Special Category visa 444.
Work, study and stay rights
The SCV allows the holder to visit, work and study in Australia and to remain while the visa stays in effect and the holder continues to meet the relevant requirements, including remaining a New Zealand citizen and meeting character requirements.
The visa generally ceases when you leave Australia
The SCV usually ceases when the holder departs Australia. A returning New Zealand citizen must obtain a new SCV on the next entry unless another visa status applies. This is different from a permanent visa with a travel facility.
What about non-New Zealand family members?
Each New Zealand citizen family member needs their own SCV. A non-New Zealand family member cannot simply be included in the SCV and may need another visa, including potentially a subclass 461 visa where its criteria are met.
Citizenship pathway since 1 July 2023
Home Affairs states that from 1 July 2023 all SCV holders can apply directly for Australian citizenship by conferral if they satisfy the citizenship requirements; they no longer need to first obtain permanent residence solely for that purpose.
Home Affairs overview: New Zealand citizens in Australia.
