Passports and visas when you go to Australia

Most NZ citizens can visit, live and work in Australia without applying for a tourist or work visa. NZ permanent residents need to apply for visas to Australia.

Passports

You need a valid NZ passport to go to Australia.

Most adult New Zealanders can get and renew their passports online. All children under 16, including babies, need their own passport.

If you’ve legally changed your name, and it does not appear in your passport, update your passport with your new name by renewing it online.

Get or renew a passport online

Visas

If you’re an NZ citizen

If you’re an eligible NZ citizen you get a Special Category visa on entry into Australia. The Special Category visa allows you to live, study and work in Australia for as long as you like.

Special Category visa

If you’ve got a criminal conviction or untreated TB, you’ll need to apply for permission to enter Australia from the Australian High Commission.

Australian High Commission character requirements

If you’re not an NZ citizen

If you’re not an NZ citizen and want to move to or travel in Australia, you need a visa. This includes NZ permanent residents who are not entitled to a Special Category visa. There are different types of visas and different rules for each. Find the Australian visa that applies to your situation.

Find the right Australian Visa

Who to contact for more help

If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.

Utility links and page information

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