Going to Australia
Off to Australia? Here’s some information you need to know
If you’re taking a trip, going for work, or moving to Australia for the long-term, as a New Zealand citizen and passport holder you can take advantage of the close relationship between the two countries. Agreements are in place that allows New Zealanders easier entry into Australia.
On this page:
- Getting through Australian passport control faster
- Entry and Exit Requirements
- Going for a short trip?
- Arriving in Australia
- Staying and living in Australia long-term
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Getting through Australia passport control faster
If you currently hold an e-Passport (any New Zealand passport issued since November 2005), you will be able to use SmartGate when you arrive at most international airports in Australia.
How to check you have an e-Passport
SmartGate is currently available for New Zealand and Australian e-Passport holders arriving at most international airports in Australia and in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch international airports from any destination. SmartGate is also available if you are departing from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch international airports to any destination.
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Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa and other entry and exit conditions change regularly. Contact the Australian High Commission well in advance of your travel, for the most up to date information.
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Going for a short trip?
Health care
Avoid delays
New Zealanders making short term visits to Australia should get comprehensive travel insurance to cover non-emergency health care costs, including ambulance costs and travel back home to New Zealand.
If you receive payments from Work and Income
If you receive income support, New Zealand Superannuation or a Veteran’s Pension and you’re going overseas even for a short trip you should contact Work and Income in New Zealand as your entitlement and payments may be affected.
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Arriving in Australia
You automatically get a special category visa
You will automatically get a special category visa when you arrive, provided you meet certain security, character and health requirements. Your passport will be stamped when you arrive, which is proof that you hold the visa.
New Zealanders can stay and work in Australia indefinitely
Once your New Zealand passport is stamped with the special category visa, you are able to stay and work in Australia indefinitely – provided you remain of good character.
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Staying and living in Australia long-term
You should apply for a Medicare card, which will give you access to Australian healthcare, including reduced costs for doctor’s visits and medical prescriptions. For more information go to medicareaustralia.gov.au
If you receive payments from Work and Income
Contact Work and Income in New Zealand before you leave if you receive income support, New Zealand Superannuation or a Veteran’s Pension and you’re moving to Australia to live, as your entitlement and payments may be affected. Work and Income will advise if you can still receive all or part of your payment while you’re in Australia.
Permanent residency in Australia
Having permanent residency in Australia means you are then eligible to receive the full range of Australian social security benefits including unemployment or sickness benefits.
- Information about permanent residency in Australia at immi.gov.au.
- Go to centrelink.gov.au to learn about payments and social security administered by CentreLink (the Australian equivalent of Work and Income).
