New Zealand Subclass 189 Visa: Eligibility, Requirements, and Application Process

Australian Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) for New Zealand Citizens

New Zealand Subclass 189 Visa: Are you a New Zealand citizen looking to build a life in Australia? The Australian Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) offers a streamlined pathway for New Zealand citizens to gain permanent residency and, eventually, Australian citizenship. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this visa, from eligibility requirements to the benefits and application process. Whether you are planning a move or are already living in Australia, this guide is your one-stop resource for securing your future.

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Overview of the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) under the New Zealand Stream is designed specifically for New Zealand citizens who have been living in Australia. This visa allows eligible applicants to live, work, and study permanently in Australia. It also provides a pathway to Australian citizenship after holding an Extraordinary Category Visa for five consecutive years and meeting other eligibility criteria. New Zealand Subclass 189 Visa

Who Is Eligible?

The eligibility criteria for the Subclass 189 visa under the New Zealand Stream are designed to accommodate long-term residents who have made significant contributions to Australia’s economy and society.

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Key eligibility criteria include:

Citizenship and Visa Requirements:

• You must be a New Zealand citizen who currently holds an Extraordinary Category Visa (subclass 444).
• Family members included in your application can hold any type of visa.

Residency Requirements:

• You must have been ordinarily resident in Australia for a continuous period of five years immediately before your visa application.
• You must have commenced your period of continuous residence in Australia on or before 19 February 2016.

Skill and Age Requirements:

• You must have an occupation that is eligible under this visa subclass (refer to the list of eligible skilled occupations).
• You must undergo a skills assessment for your nominated skilled occupation.
• Applicants must be between 18 and 45 years old.
• You must possess competent English language proficiency.

Health and Character Requirements:

• You must meet specific health and character requirements as part of the application process.

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Point-Tested Stream for Non-New Zealand Citizens

If you are not a New Zealand citizen, you may still qualify for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) under the Points-Tested stream. This option is available for skilled workers who do not have sponsorship from an employer, a state or territory, or a family member in Australia. New Zealand Subclass 189 Visa

Criteria for the Points-Tested Stream include:

• Meeting the points test threshold of at least 65 points.
• Having a skilled occupation on the eligible list.
• Obtaining a suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
• Being at least 18 years old and younger than 45 at the time of application.
• Demonstrating at least competent English language ability.

Points are awarded in the following areas:

• Age
• English language proficiency
• Skilled work experience in Australia and overseas
• Australian and international qualifications
• Credentialed community language qualifications
• Specialist education qualifications
• Spouse qualifications
• Professional year in Australia

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Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) under the New Zealand Stream is a multi-step process. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to apply:

Prepare Your Documents:

• Gather your identification documents, such as your New Zealand passport and proof of your Extraordinary Category Visa (subclass 444).
• Obtain evidence of your continuous residence in Australia for the last five years, such as tax records, employment records, or utility bills.
• Arrange for a skills assessment for your nominated occupation, if applicable. New Zealand Subclass 189 Visa

Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI):

• Submit an EOI through the Australian Government’s SkillSelect online system.
• You’ll need to provide details about your occupation, skills, education, and experience.

Receive an Invitation to Apply:

• If your EOI meets the criteria, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
• Once invited, you must submit your visa application within the specified time frame.

Submit Your Visa Application:

• Complete the online visa application and attach the required documents, including your skills assessment, English proficiency results, and proof of continuous residence.
• Pay the visa application fee (AUD 4,240 for the primary applicant). Additional fees apply if you include family members.

Health and Character Checks:

• Complete the health examinations as required by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Provide police clearance certificates to demonstrate good character.

Decision Notification:

• You’ll be notified of the visa decision in writing.
• If your visa is granted, you’ll receive the visa grant number, the start date, and any conditions attached to your visa.
• If your application is denied, you will be informed of the reasons and whether you have the right to review the decision.

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Benefits of the Subclass 189 Visa for New Zealand Citizens

The Subclass 189 visa offers several advantages, making it an attractive option for New Zealand citizens:

Pathway to Australian Citizenship:

• After holding the visa for 12 months and maintaining a continuous residency period of five years, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.

Permanent Residency Status:

• As a permanent resident, you have the right to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely.

Access to Social Security Benefits:

• Permanent residents can access social security payments such as unemployment benefits, pensions, and healthcare services through Medicare.

Family Inclusion:

• You can include eligible family members in your application, allowing them to live and work in Australia.

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Employee Benefits for New Zealand Citizens Working in Australia

Employers in Australia often offer comprehensive benefits packages to employees, including those on the Subclass 189 visa. While not all benefits are mandatory, employers are encouraged to provide competitive packages to attract and retain skilled workers. New Zealand Subclass 189 Visa

Paid Leave:

• Four weeks of paid annual leave is standard.
• Employees are entitled to paid public holidays, totaling 11 days per year.

Parental Leave:

• Paid parental leave arrangements are common, offering flexibility and support for families.

Sick Leave:

• Employees are entitled to 10 days of sick leave annually, with the ability to carry over unused leave.

Bereavement Leave:

• Employees may take three days of paid leave following the death of an immediate family member.

Flexible Work Arrangements:

• Many employers offer options such as remote work, flexible hours, and part-time positions.

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Visa Cost and Other Financial Considerations

Application Fee:

The visa application fee for the main applicant is AUD 4,240. Additional costs may be incurred if family members are included.

Health and Character Checks:

Costs associated with health examinations and police clearances must be borne by the applicant.

Settlement Costs:

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Consider expenses such as relocation, accommodation, and living costs upon moving to Australia.

Final Thoughts

The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) under the New Zealand Stream provides an exceptional opportunity for New Zealand citizens to become permanent residents of Australia and eventually gain citizenship. With its numerous benefits and a clear pathway, this visa is an attractive option for those looking to build a life in Australia. New Zealand Subclass 189 Visa

For more detailed information and guidance on the application process, visit the official Australian Government website or consult a registered migration agent.