444 — Special Category Visa

The Special Category Visa (subclass 444) is an Australian temporary visa granted automatically to New Zealand citizens on arrival. It allows holders to live, work, and study without restriction for as long as they remain a New Zealand citizen and stay in Australia — with no application fee.

The visa ceases on departure and is re-granted at each re-entry. There is no upper limit on how long holders may stay while in Australia. Non-NZ citizen family members may be eligible for the subclass 461 visa. Holders can pursue permanent residence through pathways such as subclass 189 (NZ stream) or subclass 888.

This visa is ideal for New Zealand citizens planning to live and work in Australia long-term, with a clear route to permanent residence and no fee or sponsorship required.