From Resident to Permanent Resident
After holding a Resident visa and meeting requirements such as time spent in New Zealand or other commitment criteria, you can apply for a Permanent Resident visa with no travel conditions.
Citizenship requirements
To apply for citizenship, you generally need to have lived in New Zealand as a resident for at least five years and meet minimum time in the country, good character and language requirements.
Benefits of citizenship
Citizens can hold a New Zealand passport, vote in all elections and live in Australia under trans Tasman arrangements. Citizenship provides long term security for you and your family.
NZ status comparison
| Status | Travel conditions | Can vote |
|---|---|---|
| Resident visa | May apply | Yes, after one year |
| Permanent Resident | None | Yes |
| Citizen | None | Yes |
- Track days spent in New Zealand for residence calculations.
- Apply for Permanent Resident status once eligible.
- Keep character records clean throughout your residence.
- Check whether your home country allows dual citizenship.
- Contact Myra Visa to plan your citizenship timeline.
Need personalised advice? Speak with Myra Visa, led by Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2519116) and New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA 202507335) Deep Mehta. Book an appointment or browse more visa guides.