By Chaice Paterson, CEO & Founder, Low Deposit Homes | Updated June 2026
If you’re a New Zealand citizen planning to move to Australia in 2026, the visa situation is genuinely simple. The Special Category Visa (subclass 444) is automatically granted to NZ citizens on arrival in Australia with no application, no fee, and no physical visa label. You present your current NZ passport at the border, the visa is recorded electronically against your passport, and you can stay in Australia indefinitely. For the full first home buyer picture, see our complete guide to moving from New Zealand to Australia.
What is the Special Category Visa (subclass 444)?
The SCV 444 is a special-arrangement visa created specifically for New Zealand citizens under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement. Key features: automatically granted to NZ citizens entering Australia with a current NZ passport; no prior application; no fee; no physical visa label (recorded electronically); and indefinite duration (valid as long as you maintain NZ citizenship and a current passport).
What does the SCV 444 entitle you to?
- Live in any state or territory indefinitely
- Work for any Australian employer without sponsorship (self-employment permitted)
- Enrol in Australian universities, TAFE and schools
- Access Medicare under the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement
- Buy residential property without FIRB approval
- Be treated as a permanent resident for most state stamp duty exemptions
- Be eligible for first home buyer schemes
What does the SCV 444 NOT give you?
- Australian citizenship (separate application required)
- Permanent residency status (technically temporary, but treated as PR for FHB schemes)
- Help to Buy eligibility (Australian citizens only)
- Access to all welfare payments (depending on arrival date)
How does the SCV interact with first home buyer schemes?
| Scheme | SCV 444 holder eligible? |
|---|---|
| 5% Deposit Scheme | Yes (since 21 June 2024) |
| Family Home Guarantee | Yes |
| FHOG QLD ($30K) | Yes |
| FHOG VIC ($10K) | Yes |
| QLD stamp duty FHB exemption | Yes |
| VIC stamp duty FHB exemption | Yes |
| First Home Super Saver Scheme | Yes |
| Help to Buy | No |
What’s the direct pathway to Australian citizenship for SCV holders?
A material change took effect on 1 July 2023. NZ citizens holding SCV 444 can apply for Australian citizenship directly after 4 years of residence in Australia, without first becoming a permanent resident. Requirements: hold SCV 444 for the qualifying period; 4 years of residence immediately before applying; meet character requirements; pass the citizenship test; take the pledge. For NZ migrants with first home buyer goals: don’t wait for citizenship to buy — SCV 444 plus the 5% Deposit Scheme delivers strong outcomes immediately.
Start your Australian first home buyer journey
Book a free 15-minute consultation — book your free call | 1800 920 172. See what you qualify for with the free Grant Eligibility Calculator.
Low Deposit Homes operates under Winning Homes Australia Pty Ltd (ACN 633 321 758). All calculations are indicative.