New Zealand
AustraliaDo New Zealand citizens need a visa for Australia?
Free movement · Indefinite — Special Category Visa (subclass 444) on arrival
For an ordinary New Zealand passport visiting Australia for tourism, business, or transit (short stay up to 30 days).
Reviewed and cross-checked· Last verified 23 May 2026
Short-stay rules at a glance
- Visa requirement
- Free movement
- Max stay
- Indefinite — Special Category Visa (subclass 444) on arrival
- Entry type
- All ports of entry
- Passport validity
- Valid New Zealand passport.
- Requirements
- Special Category Visa (subclass 444) granted automatically on arrival
- Notes
- Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement. New Zealand citizens enter Australia on the subclass 444 visa automatically — no online application.
Special rules & exceptions
- No criminal convictions or untreated tuberculosis.
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Frequently asked questions
Do New Zealand citizens need a visa to travel to Australia?
Based on GoMate's data verified against official and consular sources, the short-stay rule for an ordinary New Zealand passport entering Australia is "Free movement", for stays of up to Indefinite — Special Category Visa (subclass 444) on arrival. This covers short visits for tourism, business, or transit. Entry requirements can change, so always confirm with the Australia embassy before traveling.
How long can New Zealand citizens stay in Australia?
Under free movement, New Zealand citizens are not restricted to a fixed short-stay period in Australia, although stays beyond roughly 90 days may require registering as a resident.
How do New Zealand citizens apply for a Australia visa, step by step?
No visa or application is needed. Under free movement, New Zealand citizens can enter Australia with a valid passport or national ID card and are also entitled to live and work there.
What documents do New Zealand citizens need to enter Australia?
Valid New Zealand passport. Additional requirements: Special Category Visa (subclass 444) granted automatically on arrival. Carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds, as these may be checked at the border.
Can New Zealand citizens work in Australia on this entry?
Yes. Under free movement, New Zealand citizens have the right to live and work in Australia without a separate work permit, though longer stays may require local registration.
Can New Zealand citizens extend their stay in Australia?
Under free movement there is no fixed short-stay limit for New Zealand citizens in Australia, but staying beyond roughly 90 days may require registering as a resident with the local authorities.
Is this Australia visa rule for New Zealand citizens up to date?
This rule was last reviewed on 23 May 2026. Visa policies change frequently — always confirm the final requirements with the Australia embassy or government before you travel.
Visa policies change without notice. Always confirm the final requirements directly with the Australia embassy or government before travel.